Mentorship and Inspiration Shine at SIH Career Exploration Event

The future of healthcare in Southern Illinois was on full display at the fourth annual SIH Career Exploration Event, held April 16 at the Carbondale Civic Center.

More than 30 SIH physicians and advanced practice providers volunteered their time to connect with 60 first-year students from the SIU School of Medicine, sharing insight across 31 different specialties.

Designed by Dr. Kelli Webb, SIH director of medical student experiences and plastic and reconstructive surgeon, the event offered a “scavenger hunt” approach to mentoring.

“We wanted students to get exposed to fields they might never have thought about — from rheumatology to cardiothoracic surgery — and to hear real advice about training and balance,” Dr. Webb said. “And for us, it’s about encouraging students to come back to practice in Southern Illinois.”

For Abby Sartin of Anna, the event was deeply personal. “I traveled a lot as a child for care related to a congenital defect. That experience sparked my passion for bringing specialty care closer to home,” she said. “Meeting all these passionate physicians who want to lift up the next generation is really inspiring.”

Nicholas Weems of Carbondale echoed the sentiment. “Whatever I gain from residency, I want to bring it back to my hometown,” he said. “Being surrounded by doctors who truly care about mentoring made me feel like I’m on the right path.”

SIU Year One Doctoring Director Dr. Mick Lynch noted the event’s broader impact: “It widens students’ viewpoints. The more specialties they understand, the better choices they can make for their careers. And local students who connect with hometown physicians are more likely to return and serve the region.”

Beyond a networking opportunity, the event represents a living investment in the future — building healthcare access, strengthening local talent pipelines and keeping community at the heart of SIH’s mission.

Are you or someone you know interested in exploring a future healthcare career with SIH? Visit our Student Opportunities page to learn more!