Graduates Offer Their Feedback
Graduates of the Avera McKennan School of EMS have shared their thoughts on the program and how it prepared them to be professional paramedics.
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"Less than two months after finishing paramedic school, I was offered a full-time job at MAST in Kansas City, MO. It is a high volume, high performance EMS system with tight expectations for patient care. My education at Avera was fantastic. I was able to jump into a rather challenging work environment because I had the necessary training and skills to do the job well. Many of my coworkers are Avera McKennan paramedic school graduates. People here always ask, "You're from South Dakota? I suppose you went to Avera McKennan then. There's a ton of you guys down here." The program has a good reputation and EMS agencies recognize that. "
Nathan Hopper, paramedic class of 2007
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"I LOVE THIS JOB! I see numerous students throughout the week and none of them, in my opinion, are prepared as well as the students from the Avera McKennan School of EMS. I was definately nervous the first couple weeks on the job but when it comes down to it, I know how to provide quality patient care."
Colleen Desmond, paramedic class of 2006
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"What sets apart the Avera McKennan School of EMS is the personal level of instruction. The instructors find a way to meet each individual student's needs, and continue that relationship long after graduation. Having the Avera McKennan education as a foundation for my career in EMS gives me great pride."
Pam Staricha, paramedic class of 2002
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"I am currently working as a full time paramedic in addition to being a preceptor/mentor for students from various colleges that come to do their internship; this experience alone has made me see just how extensive my education at the Avera McKennan School of EMS was. My Lieutenant and various other experienced paramedics and firefighters have complimented me on my knowledge and skill level."
Sarah Furbeck, paramedic class of 2005
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" The education that I received from the Avera McKennan School of EMS prepared me to enter my career as a paramedic with confidence. Each and every patient will benefit from the foundation it has given me to care for others. The excellent reputation of the school is widely known by the employers with whom I interviewed."
Ken Brown, paramedic class of 2005
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"Avera McKennan's paramedic program is one of the best in the region. They successfully coordinate the clinical portion of the class with the didactic portion, and produce well-rounded paramedics."
Dan DeSmet, Operations Manager, North Memorial Ambulance - Marshall Region, paramedic class of 1997
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"My husband and I have often expressed to each other how we have appreciated the Avera McKennan program. We really believe you and your staff went out of your way to help our son Lee be successful. We believe the size of your program allowed for personal attention that Lee would have never received elsewhere. His boss, at his current position, has told others that he is impressed with Lee's excellent training. All the credit goes to the staff at Avera McKennan. For Hans and I, to see our son become a competent and confident employed paramedic in one year has been an unbelievable delight! We are proud of his hard work and success, but thank you all so very much for your part."
Joy and Hans Hinrichsen
Lee Hinrichsen, paramedic class of 2006
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