WILLIAMSPORT, Pa. (NOV. 9, 2026) — Career exploration takes on a whole new meaning when students have the opportunity to experience a profession firsthand.

Through Loyalsock Township High School’s cooperative education program, students can step beyond the classroom and into professional environments, gaining valuable experience while exploring potential career paths.

For three LTHS seniors participating in a health care co-op at UPMC, that means learning alongside health care professionals, observing patient care and gaining a better understanding of the teamwork, compassion and collaboration involved in serving patients and the community.

The experience has also given students an opportunity to connect their personal interests and classroom learning with real-world applications. From exploring different health care specialties to witnessing the impact of patient-centered care, these opportunities are helping students better understand what a future in health care might hold.

Just as importantly, students are discovering lessons that extend beyond technical knowledge, including empathy, communication, teamwork and the importance of working together to provide exceptional care.

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