UofL Nursing launches first Path Ahead Summer Bridge Program for high school students

This summer, the University of Louisville School of Nursing proudly welcomed its inaugural class of the Path Ahead Summer Bridge Program. The program is a new initiative designed to support Louisville high school students exploring careers in nursing and healthcare. The program fosters mutual, collaborative relationships between students, faculty, and community partners to create a meaningful, hands-on learning experience before pursuing a college degree.

One of the program’s first participants, Kira Tudor, a student from Central High School, shared how the experience helped her clarify her career goals and grow both academically and personally.

I joined because I wanted to double-check if nursing was really what I wanted to do,” Kira said. “I loved the hands-on experiences, which gave me a chance to see what it takes to be a nurse and compare it to other career paths.

Throughout the summer, students like Kira engaged in immersive activities—from research presentations to clinical simulations—that challenged them to stay focused, build discipline, and expand their understanding of healthcare. A standout moment for Kira was a hands-on ultrasound activity that opened her eyes to how technology can transform patient care.

It made me think about all the different ways you can use ultrasound, not just for babies, but for veins and hearts. It made me wonder how else this technology can be used to help people.

The program also emphasized building relationships with peers, mentors, and professionals. Kira noted that making new friends outside her school and connecting with UofL college professors helped her better understand the transition from high school to college.

It’s a big jump, but the professors helped us understand what college is really like. That support made a difference.

Now that she is heading into her junior year, Kira is planning a senior-year co-op to gain even more experience in the field. Her advice to future students?

Give it a chance. It might feel like it starts off slow, but at the end, you see how much you learned.

The Path Ahead Summer Bridge Program is more than a summer experience; it’s a launchpad for future healthcare leaders. By investing in students early and building strong, collaborative partnerships, the School of Nursing is paving the way for a more engaged, prepared, and inspired generation of nurses and healthcare professionals.