4-H Careers in Human and Animal Medicine

Explore Careers. Build Skills. Meet the Professionals.

Are you interested in becoming a doctor, veterinarian, nurse, physical therapist, veterinary technician, or another healthcare professional? The 4-H Careers in Human and Animal Medicine Program provides high school students with a unique opportunity to explore a wide range of careers in healthcare through hands-on experiences, facility tours, and conversations with professionals working in the field.

This 10-session career exploration program introduces participants to both human and animal medicine while helping them better understand the education, skills, and experiences needed to pursue these rewarding professions.

Throughout the program, participants will visit hospitals, veterinary facilities, colleges, and other healthcare settings to learn directly from physicians, veterinarians, nurses, physical therapists, educators, and other professionals.

What You'll Experience

Participants will:

• Explore a variety of careers in both human and animal medicine.
• Go behind the scenes at healthcare facilities and educational institutions.
• Meet professionals and hear firsthand about their education, career paths, and daily responsibilities.
• Participate in interactive demonstrations and hands-on learning activities.
• Learn about college programs, certifications, and career pathways in healthcare.
• Develop professional skills such as communication, teamwork, critical thinking, and professionalism.
• Connect with peers who share an interest in medicine, science, and healthcare careers.

Whether you're certain you want a healthcare career or are just beginning to explore your options, this program offers valuable experiences to help you discover where your interests may lead.

Who Can Participate?

Students in grades 9–12.

Program Fee:

TBA. Financial assistance is available to ensure all interested students have the opportunity to participate.

Tentative 2026–2027 Schedule

Sessions are held on designated Monday evenings from 6:00–7:30 p.m., unless otherwise noted. Schedule is subject to change.

Date	Topic
October 5, 2026	Orientation & CPR
Wednesday, October 7, 2026	College Visit: Exploring Nursing Careers & College Pathways
October 19, 2026	College Visit: Veterinary Technology Program
October 26, 2026	Hospital Visit: Behind-the-Scenes Healthcare Careers
November 2, 2026	Animal Hospital Visit: Small Animal Medicine
Tuesday, November 3, 2026 (10:30 a.m.–12:00 p.m.)	Rehabilitation Hospital Visit: Rehabilitation Medicine & Physical Therapy
November 9, 2026	Hands-On Learning in Health & Animal Science
November 16, 2026	Equine Medicine & Large Animal Care
November 23, 2026	Sports Medicine & Orthopedic Healthcare
November 30, 2026	Preparing for a Career in Medicine: College, Careers & Financial Planning

Snow Dates: December 7 and December 14

Transportation

Participants are responsible for arranging their own transportation to and from each session. Detailed location information and directions will be shared with enrolled participants before each session.

Register

Registration will open in August 2026.

Want to be among the first to know when registration is available? Contact Kristin at klf37@cornell.edu to join the Rockland County 4-H Updates email list and receive registration information, program announcements, and other upcoming 4-H opportunities.

Last updated July 30, 2026