EMT Student Balances Family, Education Demands

Being able to learn remotely is what drew Dorie Moore to the hybrid EMT course at Blackhawk, where she can complete a lot of the work from home while caring for her two young children.

“I was very impressed by how helpful and welcoming the faculty and staff have been, especially as it relates to the challenges of tackling school and the care of my two kids,” she said.

A native of Fleetwood, Pa., Dorie earned a Bachelor of Science degree from Maranatha Baptist University in Watertown.

As a Blackhawk student, she is excited to take advantage of the learning tools the college has to offer and says the virtual anatomy table has been one of her favorite experiences so far.

The different skill levels that Dorie has seen in her class is something that impressed her.

“There are high school students and recent graduates, but also older students like me,” she said. “That range of experiences and perspectives make our class stronger because everyone contributes something different.”

Dorie has realized that she can balance her commitments and not give up on what she wants to accomplish. She says her instructor, Tina Jordan, has been very supportive and encouraging.

Tina says that Dorie is a conscientious, hard-working team player. She classifies Dorie as “an exceptional role model student.”

“She has a calming demeanor and great knowledge that will make her an awesome EMT,” Tina said. “She juggles her rigorous class schedule with small children and family obligations successfully with a great positive attitude!”

Beyond earning her EMT license, Dorie says that she’s also learning how to think critically and support other members of the healthcare team. She also takes advantage of the different resources that Blackhawk offers.

“Whether your challenge is finances, organization, studying, or just coping with the demands of college life, BTC is full of people who want to see you succeed – let them help you achieve your goals,” she said.

Dorie will finish the EMT course in December. She then plans to manage the Health Center at Camp Joy in Whitewater, where she lives.

National First Responders Day is Friday, Oct. 28. The day honors the firefighters, police officers, EMTs, and all those who are first on the scene in stressful situations.