• Cost-free nursing license or associate degree in nursing

• Real-world experience: Students have the opportunity to gain hands-on experience in their chosen fields. They work directly with professionals, engage in practical projects and experience the day-to-day realities of the industry they are interested in. This experience helps them develop a deeper understanding of their career interests and allows them to apply theoretical knowledge to real-world situations.
  
• Marketable skills: Participation in these programs equips students with valuable skills that are in demand in the workforce. They acquire technical skills specific to their chosen industry, as well as transferable skills such as problem-solving, communication, teamwork and critical thinking. These skills make students more competitive in the job market and enhance their employability.
  
• Industry connections and networking: Through pre-apprenticeships, work-based learning and CTE programs, students interact with professionals, industry experts and mentors. These connections provide students with valuable networking opportunities and the chance to build relationships with individuals already established in their desired fields. These connections can be beneficial for future job opportunities, internships and mentorship.
  
• College credit and advanced standing: Dual enrollment programs allow students to earn college credits while still in high school. This not only reduces the overall cost of college but also gives students a head start on their higher education. By completing college-level courses early, students may be able to graduate from college earlier or have room in their schedule to explore additional areas of interest.
  
• Career exploration and decision-making: Engaging in these programs allows students to explore various career options and make informed decisions about their future. They can gain exposure to different industries and professions, helping them narrow down their interests and choose a career path that aligns with their skills, passions and goals.
  
• Increased confidence and self-efficacy: Participating in pre-apprenticeships, career technical education (CTE), and work-based learning programs gives students a sense of accomplishment and confidence in their abilities. By successfully completing projects, working with professionals and seeing the impact of their efforts, students develop a belief in their own capabilities and are better prepared for future challenges.
  
• Smooth transition to the workforce or higher education: These programs provide a smooth transition from high school to the workforce or post-secondary education. Students who participate in these programs have a head start in terms of experience, skills and knowledge, making them more prepared and confident when entering the next phase of their education or career journey.
• Possible employment with a renowned healthcare organization

Eligible students in grade 10 who attend participating schools should apply. Please see important dates for the program.

Requirements

• 2.5 GPA
• Highly focused and motivated
• Complete a personal statement
• Able to commit and qualify for dual enrollment courses

Time commitment

• This program will involve 4-6 two hour exploratory learning experiences provided by Ochsner’s education outreach team
• One week of on-site job shadowing/internship (non-paid)
• Soft-skills training during your 11 grade year. These sessions will be outside of school hours
• Financial literacy during the 12 grade year. These sessions may also be outside of school hours.
• This program will go from 10 grade through graduation from nursing school. 3-4 years.
• The dual enrollment courses that will be needed to qualify for the program. These courses will be different for each college.

Interested Orleans Parish students can learn more about our New Orleans Career Center (NOCC) fast-track pre-apprenticeship by downloading our flyer or visiting the NOCC website. 

Parents of participating students should know:

• No cost to public school students (private schools do not get supplemental course academy funding for dual enrollment).
• Important dates and information. This will be different for each community college.
• Course layout for remaining post-secondary curriculum

Are you a school interested in participating in this program? Here is what schools get out of this program:

• Enhanced career readiness: These programs expose students to real-world work environments and provide them with practical skills and experiences. Students gain valuable hands-on training, enabling them to develop the technical skills, knowledge and work ethic required in various industries.
  
• Academic engagement: Programs like dual enrollment and CTE often offer courses that connect academic subjects to practical applications. This connection can increase student engagement and motivation, as they can see the relevance of what they are learning in school to their future careers.
  
• Smooth transition to the workforce: Pre-apprenticeships and work-based learning experiences provide students with a head start in their chosen career paths. By engaging in these programs, students can explore their interests, make informed career choices and acquire industry-specific skills. This can lead to a smoother transition from high school to the workforce or post-secondary education.
  
• College credit and advanced standing: Dual enrollment programs allow students to earn college credits while still in high school. This can provide a cost-effective pathway to higher education and accelerate the completion of a degree. Students who participate in these programs often enter college with advanced standing, saving time and money on their education.
  
• Increased job opportunities: Participation in pre-apprenticeships, CTE and work-based learning programs can enhance students' resumes and make them more attractive to employers. These experiences demonstrate practical skills, work ethic and industry knowledge, giving students a competitive edge when seeking employment or applying for post-secondary education.
  
• Collaboration with industry partners: Establishing partnerships with local businesses, industry professionals and educational institutions for these programs fosters collaboration between the school and the community. This collaboration can lead to internship opportunities, guest speakers, mentoring and resources that enrich the educational experience for students.
  
• Addressing skills gaps: Many industries face a shortage of skilled workers in specific fields. By incorporating pre-apprenticeships, CTE and work-based learning into their curriculum, high schools can help address these skills gaps and prepare students for in-demand careers. This benefits not only the students but also the local economy and job market.

Questions? Email pre-apprenticeship@ochsner.org

Would you like Ochsner to present this program to your school? Request it here.