Living Our Values: A spotlight on URochester Medicine’s High School Explorers Program

The University of Rochester’s spirit of curiosity and creativity is fueled by the drive of faculty, staff, and healthcare providers who bring new ideas to life every day. At URochester, employees are encouraged to think ambitiously and work purposefully. In the “Living Our Values” series, get to know some of the many individuals who make our lives “ever better” by turning our mission into action each day.

Inspiring the Next Generation—Meet a member of the High School Explorers Program

Kim Morgan

Talent Acquisition Specialist, Imaging Sciences
Human Resources

What is your role and how long have you worked at the University of Rochester?

I have been in recruiting for over 20 years, including five years at URochester Medicine.

How did you become involved with the High School Explorers Program?

One of our strategic goals is to raise awareness among high school students about what we do. Many students want to enter the medical field, but don’t know about the options beyond being a nurse or a doctor. As part of high school career exploration, we invite students to our Imaging department to learn about imaging science professions and get a tour. Four years ago, we began with two schools, and last year we had 17 schools participate!  Additionally, we offer students the opportunity to shadow the department individually to gain hands-on experience across all modalities.

What does the program give students an opportunity to experience?

In addition to learning about imaging, touring the facility, and shadowing staff, we explain a career pathway to them, including beginning as an Ambulatory Technician at URochester Medicine. We outline the career pathways program with MCC, which has been very successful in exposing the imaging field in our area.

Complete this sentence: This work matters to me because…

I was the first in my family to attend college. I have made it my career goal to help young people, and I love recruiting for the Imaging department. There is a nationwide shortage of radiologic technologists, and it is gratifying to know we are helping promote the field.

What do you enjoy most about working with high school students?

I enjoy seeing their excitement and hearing their questions. It’s also rewarding to learn that some graduates are headed to college to become radiologic technologists. It makes it all worthwhile.

What have you learned from students who have participated in the program?

Students have shown us how much this program is needed. They often tell us they had no idea how many opportunities were available and thank us for helping them see what’s possible. They leave with a clearer understanding of a career in radiologic technology and the steps to get there.

What advice would you give to students exploring imaging career paths?

Never stop learning and asking questions. Also, students are encouraged to contact us to schedule a shadowing experience with our department.