High School Career Exploration Opportunities!

Published On: May 10, 2026

High School Career Exploration Opportunities!


May 14 – Health Sciences Career Day 

Do you love helping people? Explore some of Iowa’s most in-demand healthcare careers through live panels and behind-the-scenes insights from industry professionals.

Why Attend?

  • Learn from the Pros: Hear directly from real healthcare professionals about their day-to-day experiences.
  • Step Out of the Classroom: Receive an excused absence to focus on your future career path.
  • Find Your Passion: Discover what it’s really like to make a difference and save lives every day.

Event Details:

Date: Thursday, May 14
Time: 9:00 A.M. – 12:00 P.M.
Location: Multi-Purpose Room

👉 Sign up for a session here!

Session Options: 

  • Option 1: Pharmacy & Nursing (9:00 – 10:00 A.M.)
    Go beyond the counter and into the heart of patient care. Learn about life-saving medications, vaccinations, and how nurses provide essential bedside care and advocacy.
  • Option 2: Radiology & Physical Therapy (10:00 – 11:00 A.M.)
    Explore the intersection of technology and the human body. See how imaging tools like MRI and CT scans work, and how physical therapists help patients regain strength and mobility.
  • Option 3: EMS & Surgical Services (11:00 A.M. – 12:00 P.M.)
    Experience the fast-paced world of emergency response and the precision of the operating room—from first responders to surgical teams.

Questions Contact: Melissa Hansen (CNA Professor) – Melissa.Hansen@southeastpolk.org or Danielle Harris (College & Career Transition Counselor) – Danielle.Harris@southeastpolk.org


May 28 or June 16 – This Personal Statement Boot Camp

Students are invited to attend a free Personal Statement Boot Camp sponsored by the Iowa College AidThis is designed to help high school juniors/rising seniors get started on one of the most challenging parts of the college application process: the college essay. The session will be led by Ethan Sawyer (College Essay Guy), author of College Essay Essentials and a widely used resource among counselors and students. Session 1 is May 28th @ 11:00 AM, Session 2 is June 16th @ 11:00 AM.   Register here: ACT Webinar | Free Personal Statement Boot Camp for Students with College Essay Guy


June 7  – Business Horizons Registration Deadline

Students in grades 9–12 who want a summer experience focused on leadership, confidence, creativity, and teamwork should consider Business Horizons, held July 19–23, 2026, at Grand View University. Throughout the week, students hear from engaging speakers, tour local businesses, participate in hands-on workshops, and collaborate to solve a real-world business challenge. There is a registration fee, and financial assistance is available. To learn more and register by June 7, 2026, visit the Business Horizons website.


July 13-16 – DMACC Ankeny Summer Camp – Crime, Code & Clues

The DMACC Ankeny campus is sponsoring a free Crime, Code, & Clues: A CSI and AI summer camp opportunity for incoming 9th through 12th grade students. The free 4-day CSI + AI camp will be held at the DMACC Ankeny campus July 13-16 from 9:00 AM-3:00 PM. Lunch and snacks are provided. Students can also earn 1 DMACC credit. Questions? Email cyber-compsi@dmacc.edu. To register online, visit Crime, Code, & Clues: A CSI and AI summer camp registration form.


Summer Internship Opportunity – MidAmerican Energy

MidAmerican Energy Company is now accepting applications for its paid summer internship program. High school interns will participate in eight weeks of meaningful, hands-on work while exploring a variety of career pathways within the energy industry. To learn more and apply for the MidAmerican Energy Company Summer High School Internship Program, click here.