Hello, my name is Denton Douglas. I am currently a Paramedic based in Wichita, Kansas. Throughout my life, growing up in rural Kansas, I was forced to learn multiple hard truths and lessons that shaped who I am today. First, you will get out of life what you put into it, and that better be hard work. Don't be afraid to get your hands dirty. When others need help, be the one to lend a hand and pick them up. These lessons not only shaped who I became but also led me to a career in Emergency Medical Services (EMS), where I aim to positively impact my community, with a primary focus on rural communities to ensure quality access to emergency care. For the past eight years, I’ve worked primarily in rural EMS, where the impact of high-quality emergency care is magnified. In areas where the nearest hospital may be over an hour away, a paramedic's or EMT's decisions often determine the patient's outcome, frequently being the difference between life and death. These experiences have only deepened my commitment to advancing the field and strengthening care for underserved populations. With this scholarship, I would be able to continue pursuing my education and complete my Bachelor of Science in Paramedicine through Lindenwood University. Through pursuing this degree, I will obtain my Critical Care Paramedic certification and expand my knowledge throughout all areas of EMS, such as caring for patients with mental health crises, enhancing protocols, and performing research to drive the future of EMS forward, to name a few. Expanding and pursuing my education will not only benefit my own family but also broaden the care I can provide my community and the communities around me. Receiving this scholarship would ease the financial burden of continuing my education and allow me to stay focused on my mission of improving emergency medical care in underserved communities. My long-term goals in EMS are to contribute to the development of increasingly innovative, more efficient prehospital protocols, advocate for improved rural healthcare access, and serve as a mentor and educator for the next generation of EMS professionals. Entering the field of Emergency Medical Services was never just a job for me; it was a calling rooted in service, passion for my community, and a drive to provide quality care for all people in need. With this scholarship, I will be able to continue caring for my patients and community without the worry of the financial burden associated with my education.

Being the first in my family to obtain a college degree holds profound significance for me. It represents not only a personal achievement but also a step forward for my entire family lineage. Growing up, I often witnessed the struggles and sacrifices my parents made to provide for us. They worked tirelessly, yet the opportunity for higher education was a path that felt far out of reach. I want to change the narrative for future generations in my family. By obtaining my degree, I aspire to encourage my siblings and younger family members to pursue their educational goals, letting them know that college is not just a dream but an achievable reality. Being the first also symbolizes hope. It signifies an investment in a brighter future for myself and those who come after me. I envision a world where my achievement sets a precedent for my family. It is about breaking cycles of limitations and fostering an environment where education is valued and pursued. I want my relatives to see that striving for knowledge and professional growth is attainable, helping create a lineage prioritizing education and service to the community. As I continue my journey at Lindenwood University, I am focused on pursuing my Bachelor of Science in Paramedicine. This field was a natural choice for me, as I have always felt a strong urge to help others, particularly in emergencies where lives are on the line. I am passionate about providing high-quality care to patients, particularly in rural areas where resources can be sparse. The experience of working closely with communities that are often overlooked has driven my commitment to this path. Upon completing my degree, my goal is to further my education by attending physician associate school. This advanced training will equip me with the knowledge and skills necessary to have a more significant impact on the healthcare system. I aspire to bridge the healthcare gap, especially in underserved communities where medical assistance is limited. It is not enough for me to simply be a paramedic; I want to elevate my role in patient care and contribute to improving overall health outcomes for those who need it most. Long-term, I see myself as a healthcare leader who advocates for accessibility and equity in healthcare services. I plan to work not just as a medical professional but also as an advocate for policy changes that address systemic issues in healthcare. By using my voice and experiences, I aim to influence policies that promote better healthcare access, particularly in rural regions. My mission extends beyond just treating patients; I want to be part of a movement that educates communities about health and wellness, empowering individuals to take control of their health. Moreover, I dream of creating community outreach programs that provide education and resources to underserved populations. I believe education is a powerful tool, and by teaching skills and knowledge, we can empower individuals to advocate for their health and well-being. In conclusion, being the first in my family to earn a college degree is a pivotal part of my identity and a driving force behind my ambitions. Pursuing a career in paramedicine and, ultimately, as a physician associate is not just about personal fulfillment for me; it’s about fulfilling a larger purpose—to serve my community, break educational barriers, and advocate for a more equitable healthcare system. With determination and perseverance, I hope to inspire others to pursue their dreams while making a tangible difference in the lives of those around me.

My name is Denton Douglas, and I am currently a Paramedic based in Wichita, Kansas, where I have dedicated the past eight years to serving primarily rural communities through Emergency Medical Services (EMS). In addition to my work on the front lines, I also have the privilege of teaching Emergency Medical Technician and Advanced EMT classes at Hutchinson Community College. This dual role allows me to not only respond to emergencies but also to educate the next generation of healthcare providers, which is incredibly fulfilling. My primary motivation for working in healthcare stems from a deep-seated desire to make a tangible difference in my community. I have witnessed firsthand the unique challenges faced by rural areas, where access to healthcare can be limited and resources often fall short. Larger healthcare groups overlook many people in these communities, and I am committed to changing that narrative. I believe that as a paramedic, I have the opportunity to be a beacon of hope on what may be the worst day of someone's life. Whether it's providing lifesaving care at the scene of an accident or supporting a family during a medical crisis, every interaction holds the potential to impact individuals and their loved ones positively. Currently, I am pursuing a Bachelor of Science in Paramedicine through Lindenwood University. This program is a stepping stone for me to obtain my Critical Care Paramedic certification. I am passionate about advancing my education and skills because I want to equip myself with the knowledge necessary to deliver high-quality care to all patients, regardless of their background or circumstances. I strongly believe in the importance of equity in healthcare and strive to ensure that everyone receives the respect and treatment they deserve. Ultimately, I aspire to use my education and experience to enhance the quality of emergency medical services in rural areas. By advocating for better resources, improving patient care, and providing comprehensive education to future EMS professionals, I aim to contribute to a healthcare landscape that values every individual. My hope is to inspire and uplift those around me, creating a ripple effect that extends far beyond the immediate care I provide. In summary, my journey in healthcare is propelled by a commitment to serving underrepresented communities and making a difference in their lives. I believe that through compassion, dedication, and education, we can improve the healthcare system for everyone, especially in neglected rural areas.

I decided to pursue an education in healthcare because I wanted to be an influential part of my community and make a meaningful difference for the better. Growing up in a rural area, I witnessed firsthand the profound impact that accessible, high-quality healthcare can have on individuals and families. As a Paramedic based in Wichita, Kansas, I am continually inspired by the moments when I can provide aid and comfort during critical times. Currently, I am obtaining my Bachelor of Science in Paramedicine at Lindenwood University. This program has deepened my understanding of emergency care and reinforced my passion for this field. Additionally, I am working towards becoming a critical care paramedic, which will enhance my skills and knowledge and allow me to provide a higher level of care to patients experiencing critical health emergencies. My education is not just about acquiring credentials; it is about becoming a more effective advocate for those in my community who need support and care. My experiences in emergency medical services have illuminated the challenges many in my community face when it comes to accessing timely and effective care. Whether responding to life-threatening situations or helping patients navigate their health journeys, I take pride in being a vital resource when people need it most. This role not only allows me to provide immediate care, but it also reinforces my commitment to improving health outcomes where it matters most. Motivated by the desire to enact change, I aspire to further my education and take on a leadership role within the healthcare sector and my local department. By acquiring specialized knowledge, I will be better equipped to influence policy and practice, ultimately benefiting my community and patient outcomes. Additionally, I am passionate about mentoring and training future EMS professionals. I currently work for Hutchinson Community College, teaching future Emergency Medical Technicians and Advanced Emergency Medical Technicians. I hope to share the lessons learned from my experiences, encouraging others to approach their work with the same dedication and compassion that drives me. By fostering a culture of excellence in emergency services, we can collectively work towards enhancing care quality and access for all patients. In summary, my journey in healthcare is fueled by the desire to be a constructive force within my community while expanding my knowledge and empowering others. Through my education at Lindenwood University and my commitment to high-quality care, I strive to ensure that every individual has access to the healthcare they deserve.

Cancer has immensely impacted my life through the experiences of my family members who have battled this relentless disease. This journey has shaped my understanding of illness and loss while imparting essential lessons about strength, love, and the value of life. Furthermore, it has directly influenced my work as a paramedic, particularly in how I care for patients with cancer. My great-great-grandmother’s battle with uterine cancer was the first significant loss I encountered as a child. Although I was young and didn’t fully grasp the implications of her illness, I sensed the heaviness it brought to my family. I remember hearing stories about her strength and resilience during her struggle, which planted early seeds about the importance of courage in the face of adversity. Her passing marked the beginning of my awareness of how cancer can disrupt lives and the emotional scars it can leave behind. Later, my family faced another tragedy when my aunt and great-grandfather both succumbed to lung cancer. The experience was painful and revealing, showcasing the devastating effects of this disease. Watching my aunt’s vibrant spirit diminish as her illness progressed was heartbreaking. It taught me about the fragility of life and how quickly everything can change. Similarly, seeing my great-grandfather succumb to cancer was a stark reminder of how illness can affect generations. Through these experiences, I learned the importance of family support during difficult times. The shared grief brought us closer together, highlighting that in our darkest moments, we must lean on one another for strength. Family gatherings became precious opportunities to remember, celebrate, and reflect on our loved ones’ lives. It was during these moments that I understood the value of connection and the need to cherish every moment with those we love. The empathy I developed from my family’s struggles has significantly shaped my approach to patient care as a paramedic. Understanding the trials faced by my loved ones has deepened my sensitivity toward patients battling cancer. I recognize the fear, pain, and uncertainty they experience, and I strive to offer not just medical care but a compassionate presence during their difficult moments. I listen attentively, validating their feelings, and provide reassurance when they need it most. Furthermore, witnessing the toll that cancer took on my family has encouraged me to advocate for awareness and support. I’ve transformed my understanding into action by emphasizing the importance of early detection and education about the disease. By engaging in conversations with patients and their families about their concerns, I aim to empower them with knowledge and resources, ensuring they feel supported in their journey. Ultimately, the shadow of cancer has influenced my worldview significantly. While the pain of losing my great-great-grandmother, aunt, and great-grandfather will always be present, these experiences have prompted me to approach life with gratitude and purpose. As a paramedic, I strive to emulate their resilience by making every interaction meaningful, whether it’s a smile, a kind word, or simply being a steady presence. Reflecting on my loved ones’ battles has given me a deeper appreciation for life’s fragility and the unbreakable bonds of family. I aim to honor their legacies through my work, advocating for those affected by cancer and cherishing every moment with my patients and loved ones. The lessons I’ve learned through my family’s experiences will continue to inform my practice as I strive to bring compassion and understanding to those navigating the complex journey of cancer.

When I was a child I had a fascination with the ancient world. I loved reading about ancient Rome, Egypt, Greece, and all the great civilizations. As a child, this inspired me to want to be an Archaeologist. I wanted to explore the world and discover the hidden past. When I was younger I can remember, spending hours on end digging in my grandparent's pasture. A little background, part of my grandparents' pasture was an old landfill from the late 1800's- early 1900's. This means that I was able to collect multiple bottles, ceramics, and other artifacts. After collecting my artifacts I would then clean, and display them for my family. As I have grown and experienced life my desire to be an archaeologist faded, but my passion for the past is still prevalent in my life today, I love visiting museums, warships, and other historical sites. Throughout my life, I have found a deep passion for helping others. This new passion started early with volunteering in my local church for local events, then in High School to volunteer for Big Brothers and Big Sisters. Once I finished High School I wanted to make a difference on a bigger stage, so I started volunteering for the American Red Cross Disaster Services. I was able to respond and assist in disasters big and small, from hurricanes, and wildfires to local flooding or house fires. While volunteering for the Red Cross I was encouraged to obtain my EMT license. While obtaining my EMT license I found a new passion, Emergency Medicine. With this new passion, I was able to combine all of my passions, learning from the past and the people who have come before me, helping others in their greatest time of need, and being able to practice emergency medicine. This combination inspired me to continue my education first obtaining my Advanced EMT then my Paramedic, and I am currently pursuing my Bachelor's Degree in Paramedicine. Through obtaining my degree I will be able to better care for my community and my patients. When thinking back to my childhood self, I believe I knew I wanted to make a difference in the world. I thought it was going to be by discovering a hidden civilization, but now I make a difference by caring for people when they need help the most, and I would not change a thing for the world.

Hello, my name is Denton Douglas. I currently live in Wichita, KS, and I am a student at Lindenwood University pursuing my bachelors degree in paramedicine. I work full-time as a Paramedic in Wichita, KS, along with working full-time I also work part-time as an EMT instructor at Hutchinson Community College. I have worked in Emergency Medical Services for the past six years, throughout the last six years I have had the opportunity to work in multiple environments such as Emergency Departments, Rural and Metro EMS services, EMS Education and as part of the FEMA disaster response team. If that was not enough I am also engaged and the wedding is planned for May of 2025. My biggest passions in life are my Emergency Medicine, Education and advocation. When I was first discovering who I was and what I wanted to do with my life, I was like everyone else and I had no idea what I wanted to do. I was lucky enough to enroll in EMT school and find my passion early, ever since the first day of EMT class, I fell in love with Emergency Medicine and with EMS. The ability to care for anyone in my community in their greatest time of need, is like nothing else. Educating is also one of my great passions, as I stated I currently work at Hutchinson Community College assisting to teach the next generation of EMS responders. I love being able to share my knowledge of medicine with students. I also am able to share my knowledge and educate my community through multiple programs I have been able to start through my EMS service. With both of the previous passions an easy third is advocating, I find great pride in being able to advocate for my patients, my students and my community. I strongly believe everyone deserves the best possible healthcare no matter sex, race or who you love. This scholarship would assist me with pursuing my education. By continuing my education I will be able to honor and carry on Coco's legacy by offering a safe and non judgmental space in people's greatest time of need. Part of my bachelors program is learning about treating mental health crises more effectively. The LGBTQIA+ community is one of the communities I would like to continue to focus on as well as assist in educating people and other responders about specific emergencies that affect our community at higher rates then the general public. I personally believe that being a member of the LGBTQIA+ community has pushed me to be a better person, to be more patient and more caring. As a gay man living in Kansas it is not always easy to get along with everyone, but when people do not "agree with your lifestyle" it pushes me to be a bigger person and try to prove them wrong. So far in my life I have proven them wrong time and time again, and I plan to continue that streak.

When I think of a legacy, the first thing that comes to my mind is legacy families, they go to prestigious schools or have a trust fund. I believe most families have a legacy if they know it or not. I can think of many families who have a legacy, it could be something good such as they always volunteer or the family is full of athletes. The legacy could also not be such a good thing especially If the family has dealt with substance abuse or legal troubles. No matter what the legacy may be it is up to you to decide if you want to continue on this path or create your own. When thinking about my own family and the legacy they have created for me, I can think of two distinct things. The first is a group of hard working people who have created their own businesses and created a life for themselves. When thinking about this part of my family the first people to come to mind is my great grandparents. They were able to create multiple of their own companies such as a trash service and a construction business. My great grandparents were able to see a whole in their community and fill it in order to provide for their family and children. Then there is the other part of my family who has struggled with alcohol abuse and drug use. This portion of my family has struggled with addiction and substance abuse. While I am thankful to say most of my family has been able to seek treatment, some of them have lost the battle with their disease. Looking deeper into these legacies I see a group of people who are hard workers, either to fend for their families or to fight their own battles with substance abuse. My family is full of people who were able to make the best out of a bad situation and I plan to continue that aspect of my legacy. As you can tell from the above information my upbringing has impacted my life in many ways. I was introduced to the effects of substance abuse and alcohol at a young age, but I did have a very loving and caring family who influenced my life. I was raised in semi rural Kansas, I was brought up on a farm and participated in 4-H. My great grandmother my grandma Gayla, was a big influence in my young life and she taught me many things. She cultivated a love of volunteering at our local church and in our community, she also assisted me in developing a love of baking that I still continue to this day. I think the biggest lesson I learned from her was how to make the best out of every situation, she could be in the worse situation and still be able to show love and affection to people. I attempt to continue this practice in my life and in my career as a paramedic. When looking at my upbringing I would not change a thing it made me the person I am today and placed me on the path I am on today. I will continue to volunteer, bake and care for anyone who needs it. At the same time I am hopeful along with my siblings we will be able to break the cycle of substance abuse, while continuing the legacy of hard work our family has created. Attached is myself with my Grandma Gayla at my high school graduation. I sadly lost her during Covid-19 but she continues to inspire me.

For as long as I can remember I knew I wanted to help people. When choosing a career field healthcare was the easy choice. The hard question was what area of healthcare to choose. Initially I thought about nursing, nursing was close to my heart I had watched multiple family members go through cancer treatment and eventually hospice care. I watched these nurses care and nurture my family members. Throughout treatments we also found a need to call 911 multiple times. I was able to have a front row seat to watch EMTs and Paramedics work on the people I loved. As I grew older I decided that I wanted to pursue a career in Emergency Medical Services. EMS called to me because in what other career can you walk into a person's life on the worse day of their life and possibly make it better. I decided to obtain my EMT certification and from day one of class I fell in love with the field. Since that first day of class I have obtained my Advanced EMT and then my Paramedic license, and I am currently working towards my bachelors degree in Paramedicine. I have had the opportunity to work in Emergency Departments, Rural EMS, Metro EMS, in EMS education teaching the next generation of EMS providers and as part of the FEMA disaster response team. When thinking about what I want to use my future degree for many things come to mind. The first is to care for my future patients. As part of my degree program I will obtain my critical care paramedic license. This additional licensing will expand my knowledge and ability to care for critically ill patients, while also expanding my knowledge of psychology, ethics and community health. As I continue to serve my community, I also would like to utilize my degree to continue educating the next generation of EMS providers. I have a deep passion for educating students and I feel a sense of duty to educate them to the best of my abilities. I would like to continue to expand my knowledge in order to educate my students. Throughout my six years in EMS I have had the privilege to be invited into peoples homes, and into their lives. I have delivered babies, broken then news of a family member passing, helped people off the ground and everything else in-between. Emergency Medical Services is a career like no other, and I truly love my job.

What makes me a non-traditional student, the National Center for education states that a non-traditional student is someone who may have the following characteristics. Older than typical age for a college student, part-time attendance, being independent of parents, working full time while enrolled, having dependents, or being a single parent. I currently check off a few of those boxes, I am currently a twenty five year old, full time paramedic working in Wichita,KS. I have been working towards my Bachelors degree in paramedicine for the last year since finishing paramedic school, I plan to continue working towards my degree by attending Lindenwood University part time and online while contributing to my community. When thinking about what drives me I think of many things, such as my community, my patients, and my family. Throughout my six years working in EMS I have found many motivators to keep me going and to encourage me to pursue my goals. When talking about my community we have to look a little deeper, while working in EMS you have two communities. The first is the community you work for and serve everyday. This community is one of the most important in my eyes because they entrust me and my partners to care for them on their worst day. This community trusts that when they call 911 they will get highly trained personnel to care for them and potentially save then, This community drives me to pursue my education because they have entrusted faith in me, and I plan to serve them to the best of my abilities. The second part of the community is the first responder community as a whole, this community is more of a family that counts on each other all of the time. This community comes together and works like a well oiled machine in times of peril. This family drives me to continue my education, because they also count on me to work as part of that well oiled machine, they count on me to care for them if they are hurt or injured. Throughout my career I have worked the majority of my career in rural EMS. While working in rural EMS you obtain a drive to care for your patients to the best of your abilities. In rural America many people do not have access to adequate health care, and they mainly rely on EMS or the Emergency Department for all of their medical needs. When your patients continue to put trust in you for continuing education on medications or CPAP you want to provide the best care possible. The final group that drives me to push myself forward is my family, not only my family that is at home and relies on me to provide for them, but the family that I have build around myself. My family of EMS personnel, and other first responders. My family of patients who rely on me for care and education daily. The family of anyone who calls 911 in an emergency. When working in EMS you have to be able to care for and treat this complete stranger like one of your family. This is the mentality I strive to have when caring for all patients, because we never know when we will be patients or our family members will be patients. When we look deep down we have many things that can give us motivation and drive. When I look at my life and my career all of my education choices and life choices have been to benefit, my community, my patients or my family.

We all have invisible wounds that we try to hide. Throughout our lives we will face many trials, some are easy to brush off others not so much. In my personal life and in my career I have faced mental health issues and assisted in treating them. I am currently a paramedic in Wichita, KS. When most people think about Emergency Medical Services they think we only treat gun shot wounds and heart attacks, but the truth is we treat and care for just as many people having mental health crisis, such as Anxiety attacks, Suicidal ideations or attempts, PTSD and so much more. EMS is on the front lines of the mental health crisis. I have focused my career on training other and new first responders on verbal deescalation tactics, and to educate and destigmatize mental health issues. Throughout my career I have faced my own mental health issues with anxiety, and depression. When the symptoms first arose I was unsure what to do. Thankfully I had a coworker who was able to see a difference and recommend I get help. I then started therapy and was able to get on anti-depressants, I thank that coworker everyday for noticing and helping me realize that I needed help. The truth on the matter is almost 30% of EMS providers have some type of mental health diagnosis, such as anxiety, depression, or PTSD. My goal is to assist others in getting the help they need, whether it is an EMS provider or one of my patients. I will be able to more effectively pursue this goal by continuing my education, and obtaining my Bachelors in Paramedicine. Throughout the program I will take multiple classes focusing on treating and assessing mental health patients.

When you are able to immerse yourself into another world, all of your problems seem to fall away. Some of my earliest and happiest memories are of playing Super Mario Bros 3 with my siblings. We started playing the Super Mario games very early on in life. I can recall hooking up the Nintendo Entertainment system, in our grandmas living room to just play Super Mario for hours on end. Like most siblings we did not get along very well growing up, but it seemed when we had a common enemy like Bowser or the evil sun from world two all of the little problems would fall away and we could bond and have fun together. One of my most memorable moments was with my older sister we were playing Super Mario Bros 3, and we had finally gotten to world 8 and we could not pass one of the levels. We all know that crushing moment when you are on your last lives and you are going to have to start all over, but finally on our last lives we were able to beat the level. Now I will be honest we never did get to beat the whole game, but I don't think we ever really cared, I think for us it was more about the journey and the challenges we could face together. Still to this day I will make my fiance play Super Mario Bros with me, just to feel nostalgic. It is amazing to me that one game created so many happy and influential moments in my life. With that I must say thank you to Mario, Luigi, Toad, and a special thanks and apology to Peach who we could never save.

My name is Denton Douglas, I am currently a paramedic in Wichita, KS. While working as a paramedic I am also the local outreach coordinator for my EMS service, through this roll I have been able to make an impression on peoples lives before they have to call EMS. I am also an active member of the Emergency Medical Services FEMA response team, that responds to disaster zones to provide support to local EMS agencies in times of need. Throughout my career I have also found a passion for education and educating the next generation of EMS providers, through assisting with EMS education at the local community college and becoming a preceptor for students. I first obtained my EMT certification in 2018. After obtaining my EMT I fell in love with emergency medicine. I fell in love with the idea of helping people in their greatest time of need, and being able to make a difference in peoples lives. This inspired me to obtain my Advanced EMT, finishing that certification just before the Covid-19 pandemic. I was able to work throughout Covid-19 at a rural EMS service as well as in the Emergency Department. I then decided to pursue my Paramedic license in order to better care for my patients and community. I am currently working towards my Bachelors of Paramedicine from Lindenwood University. This scholarship will assist me in pursuing my Bachelors in Paramedicine, through this degree I will obtain my Critical Care Paramedic certification. Through this certification I will learn how to treat and manage more complex medical and trauma patients. I will also learn how to manage more complex medications, perform advanced airway procedures, interpret and respond to lab values and multiple other skills. Throughout this program I will also learn about biomedical ethics, psychology, and multiple other critical skills that will assist in expanding the Emergency Medical Services.

A person trained to take care of the critically ill and injured. When you look up the definition of a paramedic this is what you will get. I believe Paramedicine is so much more than this, yes paramedics take care of the critically ill and injured, but we also have become mental health counselors, social workers, and so much more. Paramedicine is like no other career, you are able to see people on the best and worst days of their lives, you get to see people when they are most vulnerable and hopefully make everything alright. My name is Denton Douglas, I am currently a paramedic in Wichita, KS. I first obtained my EMT certification in 2018. After obtaining my EMT I fell in love with emergency medicine. I fell in love with the idea of helping people in their greatest time of need, and being able to make a difference in peoples lives. This inspired me to obtain my Advanced EMT, finishing that certification just before the Covid-19 pandemic. I was able to work throughout Covid-19 at a rural EMS service as well as in the Emergency Department. I then decided to pursue my Paramedic license in order to better care for my patients and community. I am currently working towards my Bachelors of Paramedicine from Lindenwood University. When deciding on what career field I wanted to pursue, I looked back at my life and knew I wanted to do something that I could take care of people, impact my local community and make a difference. After doing a lot of research I decided Emergency Medical Services was the way I could do all of those things and more. As I stated I obtained my EMT license then went to Paramedic school. My current goal is to complete my Bachelors in Paramedicine, through this program I will become a Critical Care Paramedic. I will learn how to manage and treat more complex medical and trauma patients, as well as manage ventilators, learn advanced airway procedures and multiple other skills. Completing this program will give me the tools to continue to serve my community and my patients more effectively. My goal everyday when I go to work is to provide the best care for my patients and the people in my community. As a paramedic I am able to impact my community one patient at a time, I strive to effect real change for the better in my community while providing the highest level of patient care. I also strive to make a larger impact when I deploy to disaster zones with the Emergency Medical Services FEMA response team. While deployed my goal is to provide high quality care and to be a patient advocate to anyone in need. Paramedicine is an ever changing field. A person who decides to pursue a career that intersects public service with emergency medicine finds themselves in a unique position to effect real change for every person they come in contact with. EMS personnel must continue to pursue higher levels of education, in order to increase the quality of care for all patients.

A person trained to take care of the critically ill and injured. When you look up the definition of a paramedic this is what you will get. I believe Paramedicine is so much more than this, yes paramedics take care of the critically ill and injured, but we also have become mental health counselors, social workers, and so much more. Paramedicine is like no other career, you are able to see people on the best and worst days of their lives, you get to see people when they are most vulnerable and hopefully make everything alright. When deciding on what career field I wanted to pursue, I looked back at my life and knew I wanted to do something that I could take care of people, impact my local community and make a difference. After doing a lot of research I decided Emergency Medical Services was the way I could do all of those things and more. I obtained my EMT license then went to Paramedic school. My current goal is to complete my Bachelors in Paramedicine, through this program I will become a Critical Care Paramedic. I will learn how to manage and treat more complex medical and trauma patients, as well as manage ventilators, learn advanced airway procedures and multiple other skills. Completing this program will give me the tools to continue to serve my community and my patients more effectively. I believe drive comes naturally when you find your true passion in life. My goal everyday when I go to work is to provide the best care for my patients and the people in my community. As a paramedic I am able to impact my community one patient at a time, I strive to effect real change for the better in my community while providing the highest level of patient care. I also strive to make a larger impact when I deploy to disaster zones with the Emergency Medical Services FEMA response team. While deployed my goal is to provide high quality care and to be a patient advocate to anyone in need. Paramedicine is an ever changing field. A person who decides to pursue a career that intersects public service with emergency medicine finds themselves in a unique position to effect real change for every person they come in contact with. EMS personnel must continue to pursue higher levels of education, in order to increase the quality of care for all patients.

A person trained to take care of the critically ill and injured. When you look up the definition of a paramedic this is what you will get. I believe Paramedicine is so much more than this, yes paramedics take care of the critically ill and injured, but we also have become mental health counselors, social workers, and so much more. Paramedicine is like no other career, you are able to see people on the best and worst days of their lives, you get to see people when they are most vulnerable and hopefully make everything alright. When deciding on what career field I wanted to pursue, I looked back at my life and knew I wanted to do something that I could take care of people, impact my local community and make a difference. After doing a lot of research I decided Emergency Medical Services was the way I could do all of those things and more. I obtained my EMT license then went to Paramedic school. My current goal is to complete my Bachelors in Paramedicine, through this program I will become a Critical Care Paramedic. I will learn how to manage and treat more complex medical and trauma patients, as well as manage ventilators, learn advanced airway procedures and multiple other skills. Completing this program will give me the tools to continue to serve my community and my patients more effectively. I believe drive comes naturally when you find your true passion in life. My goal everyday when I go to work is to provide the best care for my patients and the people in my community. As a paramedic I am able to impact my community one patient at a time, I strive to effect real change for the better in my community while providing the highest level of patient care. I also strive to make a larger impact when I deploy to disaster zones with the Emergency Medical Services FEMA response team. While deployed my goal is to provide high quality care and to be a patient advocate to anyone in need. Paramedicine is an ever changing field. A person who decides to pursue a career that intersects public service with emergency medicine finds themselves in a unique position to effect real change for every person they come in contact with. EMS personnel must continue to pursue higher levels of education, in order to increase the quality of care for all patients.

A person trained to take care of the critically ill and injured. When you look up the definition of a paramedic this is what you will get. I believe Paramedicine is so much more than this, yes paramedics take care of the critically ill and injured, but we also have become mental health counselors, social workers, and so much more. Paramedicine is like no other career, you are able to see people on the best and worst days of their lives, you get to see people when they are most vulnerable and hopefully make everything alright. When deciding on what career field I wanted to pursue, I looked back at my life and knew I wanted to do something that I could take care of people, impact my local community and make a difference. After doing a lot of research I decided Emergency Medical Services was the way I could do all of those things and more. I obtained my EMT license then went to Paramedic school. My current goal is to complete my Bachelors in Paramedicine, through this program I will become a Critical Care Paramedic. I will learn how to manage and treat more complex medical and trauma patients, as well as manage ventilators, learn advanced airway procedures and multiple other skills. Completing this program will give me the tools to continue to serve my community and my patients more effectively. I believe drive comes naturally when you find your true passion in life. My goal everyday when I go to work is to provide the best care for my patients and the people in my community. As a paramedic I am able to impact my community one patient at a time, I strive to effect real change for the better in my community while providing the highest level of patient care. I also strive to make a larger impact when I deploy to disaster zones with the Emergency Medical Services FEMA response team. While deployed my goal is to provide high quality care and to be a patient advocate to anyone in need. Paramedicine is an ever changing field. A person who decides to pursue a career that intersects public service with emergency medicine finds themselves in a unique position to effect real change for every person they come in contact with. EMS personnel must continue to pursue higher levels of education, in order to increase the quality of care for all patients.

A person trained to take care of the critically ill and injured. When you look up the definition of a paramedic this is what you will get. I believe Paramedicine is so much more than this, yes paramedics take care of the critically ill and injured, but we also have become mental health counselors, social workers, and so much more. Paramedicine is like no other career, you are able to see people on the best and worst days of their lives, you get to see people when they are most vulnerable and hopefully make everything alright. When deciding on what career field I wanted to pursue, I looked back at my life and knew I wanted to do something that I could take care of people, impact my local community and make a difference. After doing a lot of research I decided Emergency Medical Services was the way I could do all of those things and more. I obtained my EMT license then went to Paramedic school. My current goal is to complete my Bachelors in Paramedicine, through this program I will become a Critical Care Paramedic. I will learn how to manage and treat more complex medical and trauma patients, as well as manage ventilators, learn advanced airway procedures and multiple other skills. Completing this program will give me the tools to continue to serve my community and my patients more effectively.

Create your world and make it your own. When playing any game with no true end the options are limitless. One may think that when you reach the end and defeat the dragon you are done, I mean it is in the name the end, but no you are just scratching the surface of the game once you get to this point, and some players never reach this point and that is perfectly fine. Minecraft is truly one of the only games where you can create your own story and have your own adventure. One of my favorite aspects of Minecraft is the first five minutes of the game. You decide to create a new world, the green bar pops up and your world loads in. You have no idea where you are or what is over the next hill or across the ocean. Every new world is a new adventure and has it own unique challenges. Maybe this time I want to focus on red stone machines, next time I will focus on farming, this time lets trade with villagers. When a game has no true rules or limitations it opens the world up to your imagination and lets you truly express your true self.

Healthcare and technology are both ever changing fields normally changing together for the better. In the world of EMS you cannot open the back of an ambulance without seeing multiple new and innovative pieces of technology, from monitors, airway assist devices, point of care labs and ultrasound. EMS is advancing and utilizing new technology to better our patients in the process. EMS is also utilizing new technology in the classroom to support the next generation of first responders, through the use of virtual reality to simulate actual calls to the use of new testing software to ensure EMS students are prepared for the future. Utilizing new technology in EMS is needed to improve patient care and outcomes. For example 12 lead EKG monitoring was not widely used or available until the early 1990's. EMS was able to utilize this new form of technology to save thousands of patients yearly. End-tidal CO2 monitoring was introduced into EMS revolutionizing the ability to understand our patients at the cellular level to see if they have adequate profusion, this also changed the way EMS confirms intubations and gives real time and continuous information into tube placement. Currently EMS is changing daily with new technological advancements, such as video laryngoscopy to assist with intubations. The implementation of video laryngoscopy has been proven time and time again to improve first time intubation attempts, in turn improving patient outcomes and decreasing the amount of anoxic brain injuries during intubation attempts. The integration of IV pumps into the EMS setting has evolved the way EMS administered medications pre-hospital. The implementation of IV pumps on ambulances has decreased the chance for medication math errors and general human medication errors. IV pumps have also allowed EMS personnel to administer and monitor multiple IV medications more accurately and safely. When looking into the future of EMS the future is bright. Advancements in point of care testing, such as ultrasound and bedside lab work is evolving the way EMS treats patients in the field. The utilization of point of care ultrasound has been proven to be beneficial in trauma patients as well as medical patients. Paramedics in the field are now able to perform ultrasounds in the ambulance, in order to assess heart wall movement in cardiac arrest and return of spontaneous circulation patients, perform FAST exams on trauma patients, identify ectopic pregnancies and multiple other uses. Utilization of point of care lab work will also change the face of EMS, Paramedics will be able to obtain and interpret lab values in the field such as hemoglobin, to assist in the decision for pre-hospital blood administration, or Troponin to assist in the decision making process of hospital destinations. EMS education is also evolving to assist in the creation of the next generation of first responders. Schools across the county are utilizing new software to test students to ensure they have the knowledge they need to care for patients. Educators are also using virtual reality so students can experience real calls and make clinical decisions in real time. Pre-hospital care is always evolving for the better, our goal as EMS providers is to care for the sick and injured. EMS must continue to utilize new technology for the betterment of our patients and communities.

The most important lesson I have learned while being a first responder is you must have, the drive and dedication to work towards changing others lives for the better. My name is Denton Douglas I am currently a Paramedic in Wichita, KS. Throughout my six years in EMS I have seen the best and worst parts of humanity, but through it all I still feel a calling and a dedication to my patients. I believe EMS can and is making a difference in peoples lives. I believe the way I can make a larger difference in my local community is by attending Lindenwood University and pursuing my Bachelors in Paramedicine. Attending this program will benefit myself, and my community. As part of this program I will become a Critical Care Paramedic, this will give me further insight into critical care aspects of EMS, such as Ventilator management, advanced and difficult airway maneuvers, lab value recognition, and multiple other skills. My inspiration to pursue a career in EMS happened my senior year of high school. I was driving home from work in a rural portion of my home county. When I stumbled upon a two vehicle accident. At the time my only exposure to anything healthcare was a CPR and first aid class through my high school. So, what did I do, I got out of my car without hesitation and attempted to help the people who were injured. Once EMS arrived and care was handed over I was in amazement of these providers working seamlessly to care for multiple trauma patients. This was the moment I knew I wanted to do that as a career. Since that moment I have had multiple other inspiring moments in my career, from my first successful field save, to successful field deliveries, when my EMT or Advanced EMT students report back saying they past boards on the first try. This career continues to inspire me and my goal is to continue pursing my education in public service to better my community as a whole and hopefully inspire someone else in the process. Making a difference in my community and the communities I work in is always on the front of my mind. While working in EMS I have strived to make a positive change in every community I work in from starting new outreach programs like Stop the Bleed, and File of Life, to treating every patient I meet with the highest level of care I can provide.