An important way for college students to advance their careers is through networking within their fields.

Metro Student Health Care Executive Club allows health care majors to do just that. The club is different than most because it offers a chance to network with professionals in a specific career path.

For President Brian Cox, who recently moved to Denver, MSHCE offers the opportunity to make new friends who share the same passion.

“Since I started school in January at Metro, it’s [made] me more involved in school,” Cox said. “Being involved with the same majors, it jumps into friendships.”

The 40-member club is open to anyone, including non-health care majors. Cox said it’s a great way to volunteer.

In recent years the club has been active, just not involved in the community, Cox said. Since the semester started and he became president, Cox said he has seen a high interest in the club.

“There has been a tremendous amount of student [involvement] in the past month,” Cox said.

In the past few weeks, Cox said, the turnout has been high and there has been huge growth in the club.

In addition to helping students network, the club discusses health issues at regular meetings. This helps inform students about issues such as the health care reform.

“Especially with the reform, it’s a great way to understand,” Cox said.

Cox said he believes the club is important to students because it can be hard to find a job after college, and he believes the club helps students get a job through networking.

“Everything is about networking,” Cox added.

Cox said the club encourages networking by volunteering with local hospitals and being involved with the community. On March 15, MSHCE will volunteer with Denver Health to do research on the liver functions.

“This helps get students involved … and promotes awareness to health students,” Cox said.

Cox said the club can help members find a career and point them in the right directions.

He said the club helps students find a career and pursue their goals. Cox said an issue some health care majors run into is what direction to take with their degree. With so many different options within a hospital, it can be confusing what route to take. This is why Cox invites guest speakers from different areas of study to speak at MSHCE meetings and events. He said this can “help students find where they can fit in and find a job.”

The club will also host a grad night on April 5 to help students who are graduating decide how to further their career. The event will take place between 5:30 and 7 p.m. in Tivoli 320. Cox said food will be provided and guest speakers will attend.

In the future Cox hopes to keep spreading the word about the club and get more guest speakers to come give students opportunity.

Health care students, as well as those interested in learning about health care or a healthy lifestyle, are encouraged to join. Contact Cox at bcox18@mscd.edu for more information.