What are some of your favorite memories from your time at the DuBois Area School District?
Some of my favorite memories were made in marching band. I was very involved in the music department. There were always laughter, jokes, but in time of need, seriousness. Making music together with classmates was just so touching. An everlasting memory was when the marching band and some choir members attended my mother’s funeral and played a song and sang a song at it. They say DuBois is one big family and that just shows it.
Were there any teachers, coaches, or classes that had a lasting impact on you?
Ms. Rankus had a very lasting impact on me. I was in Yearbook, so I had extra class time with her. After my mom passed she always went the extra mile to check on me and see how I was doing. My senior year she surprised me and actually dedicated that year's yearbook to my mother. That meant the world to me. There were many other impactful teachers. I am grateful for all of them!
What activities, clubs, or sports were you involved in as a student?
I was active in the Music Department. I participated in Concert Band, District Band, Jazz Band, Concert Choir, District Choir, Region Choir, and some time in Show Choir as well. I was involved in yearbook and was also a member of the Boys Volleyball Team.
Tell us about your current career or professional role. What does a typical day look like for you?
I am currently working as an Advanced EMT at AmServ DuSan Community Ambulance. My day consists of running emergency 911 calls to people who are in need. When we arrive we begin assessing the patients as well as complete anywhere from Basic Life Support to Advanced Life Support. Every day is different in the field.
What led you to pursue this career path?
I would have to say losing my mother at such a young age pursued me to follow a path in the medical field. I strive everyday hoping to somewhat prevent others from feeling the pain I felt the day I lost my mom. I care very much for my patients and treat them as if they were my own family. I am now attending Nursing School to further my education and be able to provide more care for patients in need.
What do you find most rewarding about your work?
The most rewarding thing about my job is being able to care for them when they may be at their worst. Seeing people in public after caring for them and seeing how well they are doing just brings a smile to my face!
Have you received any recognitions, awards, or achieved milestones you're especially proud of?
Yes, I was voted the 2022 Sunny 106 Exceptional EMT of the Year.
How did your experiences at the DuBois Area School District help prepare you for your career or further education?
The experiences taught me that even when you may be at your lowest, there are so many people supporting you and celebrating your achievements. They taught me to never give up on dreams, because if you can see them, then you can achieve them.
If you could go back to high school, what goal-setting advice do you wish someone had given you?
I wish someone would have told me that even if you set goals, don’t be upset if you don’t achieve them. Life is constantly changing and sometimes goals change with it, you just have to adapt and overcome them.
How do you define success, and how has that definition evolved over time?
To me, growing up success was just accomplishing something. Today, I define success as not just completing a goal or a dream, but all the interactions I have along the way. If I have a positive interaction or impact on someone, then I see that as success. People are fragile, and sometimes that positive interaction you have with someone can be just enough to put them back together.
What skills or habits do you believe are most important for students to develop while they're in school?
I believe the most important skills students should develop while in school are interpersonal skills. Being able to appropriately communicate with others and build connections with them is very important.
How do you stay connected to the DuBois Area School District community or give back to others?
I enjoy watching the football games as well as watching the marching band. I am always encouraging children within the district to try new things and see what fits them. There is something for everyone at DuBois, you just need to find the right fit. I am very proud to be a graduate from DASD and I will continue to say it!
