Building Futures: Student Spotlight

The West Side High School Workforce Development Program, supported by the MCJ Amelior Foundation and PSEG Foundation in partnership with University Hospital Foundation, gives students hands-on exposure to careers in healthcare while helping them build confidence and professional skills.

For Skai Glover, the program opened the door to a future she never expected. Before joining, she considered cosmetology school and had never imagined herself working in healthcare. “I never really thought about working here or in the medical field,” Skai shared. “But when I joined the program, it really opened my eyes.” Through rotations across several hospital departments, Skai discovered a passion for radiology and found herself drawn to the environment and pace of the work. The experience also helped her grow personally by teaching her how to speak up, take initiative, and step outside of her comfort zone.

“When I first got here, I was nervous,” she said. “Now I’ve opened up more. I learned public speaking and how to take initiative.” Looking back, Skai encourages future students to stay open to new experiences. “Try new things,” she advised. “Once I opened up and spoke up for myself, I found radiology — and that changed everything.” Skai also reflected on the welcoming atmosphere created by hospital staff and her fellow students, saying the support she received helped her gain confidence throughout the program. Through experiences like hers, the Workforce Development Program continues to help students realize they are capable of more than they imagined.