Baptist Health Paducah offers student opportunities for those interested in a healthcare career

PADUCAH, KY (Aug. 1, 2025) — Baptist Health Paducah offers several opportunities for students to explore careers in healthcare while developing professional skills and gaining real-world experience in a hospital setting. The hospital is helping to shape the next generation of healthcare professionals through programs like volunteering and student shadowing.

Volunteering

Baptist Health Paducah utilizes student volunteers to enhance the patient and visitor experience. They volunteer primarily during school breaks and more recently as part of high school co-op programs, allowing them to volunteer during school hours.

“Students, especially those interested in healthcare careers, benefit from being in a professional environment with policies and procedures where they interact with patients, visitors and staff,” said Greg Holtgrewe, Director of Volunteer Services. “Student volunteers greet patients, assist with campus navigation and transport. Volunteering offers a unique opportunity to develop secondary communication skills as well as learning about elements of the hospital and the multitude of career options available in healthcare.”

Students as young as 14 can serve as hospital volunteers and will primarily assist with hospitality, wayfinding, and information desk duties. Volunteers must commit to a minimum of 40 service hours; most shifts are 3–4 hours. Potential volunteers must attend an orientation and training conducted by staff and experienced volunteers. An application with references is required. Interested students and parents can contact Greg Holtgrewe at 270.575.8450 or [email protected] to learn more about the application process.

Shadowing

This is a great opportunity for students to gain valuable insights into healthcare careers before choosing a specific career or educational path. This is a short-term observational experience ranging from 4-8 hours.

“Hospitals function much like small cities, relying on a wide range of specialties, from maintenance workers to physicians, to keep everything running smoothly,” said Maria Hayden, Director of Education and Development. “By offering job shadowing opportunities, we aim to give students firsthand insight into the healthcare environment and inspire more people to pursue careers in this vital industry.”

Students must be 16 or older. Applications must be received two weeks in advance. Due to patient privacy, certain areas of the hospital are restricted. For more information, students can contact Andrea Williams, Student Coordinator, at 270.575.8370 or [email protected]

Baptist Health Paducah is committed to empowering the next generation of healthcare leaders by providing students with experiential learning opportunities.

Students ready to take the next step toward a career in healthcare are encouraged to reach out to the contacts provided.