Baldwin High School Students Explore Healthcare Careers at Hofstra’s Shadow Day
Hofstra University welcomed 30 students from Baldwin High School for the annual Baldwin Shadow Day, an immersive experience designed to introduce high school students with specific post-secondary goals to visit the University and explore the academic programs within that area of interest. This year’s program, gave sophomores and juniors the opportunity to explore two tracks of study, nursing and physician assistant studies (PA), offering hands-on learning and insight into the demands and rewards of these professions.
The Baldwin students, all interested in health care and uncertain about their specific career paths, were divided into two groups. Those on the PA track gained valuable experience using sonogram machines and practicing splinting and casting techniques under the guidance of PA faculty. Meanwhile, students on the nursing track worked in Hofstra’s state-of-the-art simulation labs, engaging in practical training exercises that mimic real-life clinical scenarios.
Carina Loscalzo, interim vice dean, SONPA, spoke with the students and led an instructional session on casting. She emphasized the importance of early exposure to healthcare careers through programs like Baldwin Shadow Day, now in its 27th year.
“Experiences like this are critical in sparking interest in health care at a young age,” Loscalzo said. “By allowing students to engage in hands-on activities and interact with faculty and current students, we help them see the wide range of opportunities available and encourage them to find the path that best suits their passion and skills.”
During the PA session, Hofstra PA student Alexis Papadopoulos from Whitestone, NY, shared her experiences in the rigorous program, providing insight into coursework, time management, and career prospects. She highlighted the supportive environment at Hofstra and encouraged the students to consider the University’s dual-degree program, which allows students to complete their undergraduate and graduate studies for PA licensure in just five and a half years.
“It’s tough in the beginning, but you build friendships and support networks that help you along the way,” Papadopoulos explained. “If you manage your time well and take advantage of the resources available, you’ll find success.”
For many students, the day was eye-opening. Beverly Senat, a Baldwin junior, entered the event unsure of which healthcare career she might pursue. By the end of the day, she had newfound appreciation for the role of a PA.
“I wasn’t aware of what physician assistants do,” Senat said. “I always thought about becoming a nurse, doctor, or surgeon, but I didn’t know PAs could prescribe medication, assist in surgery, and work in so many different areas of medicine. Today was really beneficial.”
Baldwin Shadow Day continues to be a key initiative in Hofstra’s commitment to community engagement and healthcare education, aligning with the goals outlined in the Hofstra 100 strategic plan.