Nichole is a single mom of two children, Molleigh, 20, and Asher, 16. Nichole’s path to becoming an EMT actually started with an arts degree. She couldn't get into one of the art classes she needed, so she decided to try out an EMT class. Nichole knew from the first week that this was the path for her and eventually changed her major to Emergency Services Administration. The EMT class enabled her to start volunteering with the Mapleton EMS Department, where she remained until she graduated with her bachelor's degree.
During her last semester, Nichole was offered a full-time position to run the Mapleton EMS Department and has been in that position for about a year now. She also works as a firefighter/paramedic for North Fork Fire Department, an instructor for the EMT/AEMT here at Utah Valley University (UVU), and serves as a chair for the Utah County EMS Council. Currently Nichole is enrolled in the Master of Public Service program at UVU.
Why UVU?
As a mature student who wanted to further my education, I found location was a very important factor. UVU is close to where I live and work, so it was the logical choice.
What is your current degree and why did you choose to pursue it?
I earned my bachelor’s degree in Emergency Services Administration, with an emphasis in Emergency Care. I had volunteered for years for Mapleton EMS and I wanted to make a career out of what I loved. UVU offers an amazing Emergency Services Program. With the location and the great reputation of the program, it was an easy choice.
What has been the hardest obstacle in pursuing a degree?
The hardest obstacle in pursuing this degree was balancing my time between classes and being a single parent. I am very blessed to have a wonderful family who provided phenomenal support and professors and advisors who were extremely helpful in helping me achieve my goal.
Advice to others interested in the same degree as you?
Enjoy it! Most of the classes were a lot of fun.
It’s worth it. My degree was what enabled me to get the job that I love.
Communicate. There were many times I didn’t think I could pass, or even be able take a certain class, but the advisors and professors were really good to work with me.
Don’t give up. Just take it one semester at a time and before you know it you’ll be done.
How have you been a ble to apply the skills learned in school to other aspects of your life?
I learned so many skills during my pursuit of this degree—from interpersonal communications to finance. The leadership courses I’ve taken have been invaluable to the various positions I’ve held in my community and of course the paramedic skills I’ve acquired will continue to be of value for years to come.
Share one of your career goals.
My main career goal is to serve my community to the best of my ability through EMS and various public services.
If you could work for any company what would it be?
In reality, I work for the companies I have always wanted to work for. I am the chief of Mapleton EMS Department. I am a firefighter/paramedic for North Fork Fire Department and I am an instructor for the EMT/ AEMT program at UVU. I do have one more, what I call pie in the sky, dream job which would be Life Flight, Air Med or Air Care.
Nichole in New Zealand
What is your proudest accomplishment thus far?
Apart from my wonderful children, I would say that I am most proud of becoming the
Chief of the Mapleton EMS Department. I love this department and the people who are
a part of it. It is an honor and privilege to use the knowledge and skills I have
learned to continue to enhance
the services we provide for the citizens of Mapleton City.
What’s one item on your bucket list?
I have always wanted to be a part of a medical humanitarian mission.
What is your most memorable moment at UVU, academic or otherwise?
I absolutely loved the study abroad program in New Zealand. It is something I would recommend to everyone in the Emergency Service program. Not only was it a ton of fun, but the information and skills I learned have enabled me to be better at my job and to contribute to my community.
Who is your favorite professor and why?
Goodness, this is a difficult question because there have been many professors who have been instrumental in my success. I think the most influential professor for me has been Dr. Maxfield. He is approachable, and willing to share his experiences and lessons learned. His passion for students to not only pass his classes, but to truly understand the concepts taught, has been inspiring. The advice I’ve received from him has been invaluable and his leadership class was one of the most beneficial for my career.