Students in the New Vision Medical Careers program are busy turning an empty storefront into a winter wonderland.
The area high schoolers are part of EMCC’s one-year program that allows high school seniors to explore careers in health care through partnerships with Rochester General Hospital and St. Ann’s Community.
“We go to Rochester General Hospital in the morning and do ten-week rotations. You have four different rotations,” explained Erika Allison, a senior at Pittsford Mendon. 
“It’s a really cool experience. We love it, and love our class,” echoed Emmerson Robinson, a senior at Webster Schroeder. The students then spend their afternoons back at their home district, engaged in core classes.
Part of the partnership includes helping to organize an annual toy drive for pediatric patients.
The Reason for the Season toy drive is a collaboration between Rochester Regional Health and Vision Auto Group. For almost two decades, the event has provided toys to area families.
The EMCC students were given a budget and the chance to shop for the toys. From there, they organized everything into an easy-to-access shopping experience for families. They also decorated the empty space to set the stage for the upcoming festive event where families can come and pick out toys. Other toys will be distributed throughout the hospital for pediatric patients. 
“The toy drive is a way to connect with patients. We not only care about the patients in the hospital, but want them to have a good, happy holiday,” explained Erika. 
To learn more about the New Vision Medical Careers program, visit monroe.edu/EMCC