Pathways Programs

Our Pathways Programs were created to expose area students to the many healthcare careers available in our system. We are committed to helping students throughout our community succeed both academically and professionally. Healthcare is one of the fastest-growing industry sectors in our nation, and there is a critical need to increase the number of students pursuing careers in the field.

High School Internship Program

The application period for the 2025 - 2026 Reading Hospital High School Internship Program is closed. Thank you to all Berks County students who submitted applications!

The High School Internship Program provides students with a practical experience through the work environment at Reading Hospital that enhances their academic, professional, and personal development. Students apply their knowledge and skills through hands-on activities while interacting and networking with hospital staff.

High School Internship Program Eligibility

Students who are eligible to apply must meet the following criteria:

• A Berks County student
• A high school senior
• No discipline and/or attendance issues
• Have submitted a complete application package

Additional questions can be sent to CommunityWellness@towerhealth.org.

Program Information and FAQs Coming Soon

Job Shadowing

Reading Hospital’s Job Shadowing Program provides an opportunity for high school and college students who are interested in careers in healthcare to observe professionals in a workplace setting.

Our goal is to provide students with an observational experience that will increase their awareness and understanding of the breadth of healthcare careers, the day-to-day roles and responsibilities of healthcare professionals, and the skills required and educational and career pathways of healthcare employees.

Job shadowing students will:

• Observe the daily routines of clinical and non-clinical staff;
• Gain awareness of the academic, technical, and personal skills required to be successful in healthcare professions;
• Gain an understanding of the work environment that can be unique to healthcare, a particular profession, and/or department;
• Begin to identify career interests;
• Develop an understanding of the critical connections between school, work, and goal attainment.

If you are interested in participating in Reading Hospital’s Job Shadowing Program, please review and complete the Job Shadowing Application (coming soon). Additional information regarding the Job Shadowing Program, including Frequently Asked Questions, is also coming soon. Send your questions and completed applications to CommunityWellness@towerhealth.org.

Note: Job Shadowing applications should be submitted at least four weeks prior to the desired date of the experience to allow enough time for application review and approval and coordination of the experience.

Pathways College Internship

Reading Hospital’s Community Wellness team is seeking dedicated college interns to support and sustain community-based programs. The Pathways College Internship Program provides college students with a practical experience through the professional work environment at Reading Hospital that enhances their academic, professional, and personal development. Students are given the opportunity to apply their knowledge and skills through hands-on activities while interacting and networking with hospital staff.

As a Pathways College Intern, students may assist with Social Determinants of Health screening, referral, and navigation processes, Health Equity and/or Community Wellness initiatives, or other department programs that align with personal educational and career goals.

Reading Hospital provides:

• Comprehensive training
• Opportunities to learn valuable skills and interact with diverse populations
• Opportunities to make a positive difference in the community through Social Determinants of Health and Community Wellness initiatives

Pathways College Internship Timeframes and Deadlines

Pathways College Internship Requirements

• Application Form
• Reference Form
• Resume
• Personal Statement – In one page or less, please address the following topics:
  • Short personal introduction
  • Why do you want to intern at Reading Hospital?
  • How does it fit into your personal goals now and your career goals?
  • What do you hope to learn and/or what skills do you hope to gain during your internship?

Submit completed applications or additional questions to CommunityWellness@towerhealth.org.