STCC welcomes prospective students to Allied Health Careers Exploration Night

SPRINGFIELD, Mass. – Springfield Technical Community College hosted its Allied Health Careers Exploration Night on Nov. 18, offering an opportunity for prospective students and community members to explore the college’s wide range of programs in the health sciences.

The well-attended event featured live demonstrations, tours of facilities and first-hand accounts from current students about their experiences in the highly regarded health programs at STCC.

The evening showcased various fields, including dental hygiene, nursing, radiology, sonography, physical therapy and occupational therapy, among others. Visitors had the chance to interact with faculty, explore cutting-edge equipment and ask questions about academic pathways and career opportunities.

The open house event happened at a time when enrolling in STCC programs is free for qualifying state residents. MassEducate and MassReconnect cover the full cost of community college tuition and fees for all eligible students.

Christopher Scott, dean of the School of Health and Patient Simulation at STCC, highlighted the importance of the event in preparing future healthcare professionals. “This event allows prospective students to see the incredible opportunities available in health care careers and the hands-on education STCC provides,” Scott said. “Our programs are designed to prepare students for high-demand fields with real-world experience, innovative technology and the support they need to succeed.”

One student at the event, Madison Pease of Southampton, a senior in the Dental Hygiene program, praised the practical experience she has gained during her time at STCC. “I think the hygiene program is really great for anyone who’s looking for a career and who might not have the ability to go to a four-year college,” Pease said. “It’s also a really good opportunity for students to get first-hand experience in dental hygiene.”

Her classmate, Madison Beaulieu of Westfield, emphasized the program’s focus on community engagement. “STCC’s Dental Hygiene program offers a good community-based system where we have outside people from the community who need our help. Also, we have hands-on experience here compared to a lot of other schools,” Beaulieu said.

Health exploration night gives a lot of information. I’m interested in nursing, but there are many different fields you can go into. Mercedes Dunkelly, Attendee, Allied Health Careers Exploration Night

Attendee Katie Orszulak of Agawam expressed her excitement about the event. “It’s great for people to be able to come to STCC and see what this school looks like and what the departments have to offer. They can find out about all the different types of equipment and different programs within each department like sonography and radiology, nursing, physical therapy and occupational therapy,” Orszulik said.

Mercedes Dunkelly of Springfield, who is currently enrolled in STCC’s Foundations of Nursing Program, shared how the event deepened her understanding of potential career paths. “Health exploration night gives a lot of information. I’m interested in nursing, but there are many different fields you can go into,” Dunkelly said.

The event also inspired high school students like Justin Grout of Ware, a senior in high school, who attended with the goal of learning more about the Radiologic Technology program. Diagnosed with pectus excavatum, a breastbone condition, Grout’s personal medical experiences influenced his career aspirations. “I became interested in it after having so many x-rays done on me and I wanted to pursue that field,” said Grout.

STCC’s Allied Health Careers Exploration Night highlighted the college’s commitment to providing students with accessible pathways into high-demand healthcare professions. With hands-on learning, state-of-the-art facilities, and a supportive community, STCC continues to prepare students for fulfilling careers that make a difference in the lives of others.

Interested in applying to STCC? Visit stcc.edu/apply or call Admissions at (413) 755-3333.

About Springfield Technical Community College

STCC, the Commonwealth's only technical community college, continues the pioneering legacy of the Springfield Armory with comprehensive and technical education in manufacturing, STEM, healthcare, business, social services, and the liberal arts. STCC's highly regarded workforce, certificate, degree, and transfer programs are the most affordable in Springfield and provide unequaled opportunity for the vitality of Western Massachusetts. Founded in 1967, the college – a designated Hispanic Serving Institution – seeks to close achievement gaps among students who traditionally face societal barriers. STCC supports students as they transform their lives through intellectual, cultural, and economic engagement while becoming thoughtful, committed and socially responsible graduates.

MEDIA CONTACT:

Jim Danko, (413) 755-4812, jdanko@stcc.edu

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