PATHWAY CONNECTION

To support adult learners pursuing healthcare careers, Salem Community College partnered with Salem County Vocational and Technical Schools (SCVTS) to identify recent graduates of vocational programs in Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA), Medical Assistant (MA), and Phlebotomy Technician. The goal was to provide these individuals with a clear on-ramp to college-level coursework within the health sciences pathway.

Targeted outreach—including marketing materials and personalized admissions assistance—resulted in 30 interested adult learners, with 16 ultimately enrolling in the pilot BIO 150 – Fundamentals of Anatomy and Physiology course. Students were supported through consistent advising, and those facing academic challenges were connected with SCC’s Academic Support Lab. The project also provided resources to assist students navigating life barriers, such as childcare and housing insecurity.

While challenges such as college preparedness and outside obligations were significant, students who utilized academic and wraparound support demonstrated a higher success rate. This effort highlighted both the opportunity and the need to continue support structures tailored to adult learners to foster persistence and long-term success along the healthcare pathway.