On Feb. 24, USC Verdugo Hills Hospital (USC-VHH) welcomed 10 Glendale Community College students for its annual Health Care Day of Discovery designed specifically for college students. While the hospital has previously hosted similar programs for high school students, this marks the second time the event has been tailored to engage students at the college level.

The immersive experience provided students with firsthand exposure to careers across the health care field through interactive activities and expert-led panels featuring USC-VHH’s frontline professionals. Students explored pathways in nursing, medical technology, information technology and business administration – offering meaningful guidance as they prepare to take the next steps in their academic and professional journeys.

“For many students, stepping inside a hospital makes the possibility of a health care career feel tangible,” said Marie Filipian, MPH, community benefit manager at USC-VHH. “By connecting them directly with our clinicians and staff, we’re helping bridge the gap between education and practice. That experience can make all the difference as they begin to envision their future in health care.”

Throughout the day, students practiced conducting a vascular ultrasound and learned safe patient handling and mobility techniques using a mechanical lift. They also received stroke education and took part in Narcan administration training – learning how to use the medication that can reverse an opioid overdose – gaining practical insight into the daily work of health care teams. 

“I was already motivated [to get into health care], but after today I have a stronger sense that this is what I want to do and where I want to be,” said Tatiana Luca Boghossian, a recent Glendale Community College graduate who recently passed her nursing licensure exam.

Health Care Day of Discovery is part of USC-VHH’s ongoing commitment to providing meaningful learning opportunities for students and deepening its connection to the community. 

“These students represent the future of health care,” said Armand Dorian, MD, MMM, CEO of USC-VHH. “By opening our doors and providing hands-on learning experiences, we give students a glimpse of what it’s like to be the next generation of compassionate, skilled health care professionals.”