Q: What do you find interesting/inspiring/compelling about your program?

A: What I find compelling about the Surgical Technology program is the variety of things I learned through the experiences I got to have in class and in clinicals. In class, we have a synthetic cadaver we can perform surgeries on to help prepare us for clinicals. We also have a new lab that helps us simulate the operating room experience. In clinicals, we have hands on experience in the field at local surgical sites to help us prepare for our career.

I have learned so much in this program, and it feels rewarding to be able to help people with the things I have learned. I get to see surgeries and procedures people normally don’t see in everyday life, and that aspect is really inspiring to me. The hands-on experience between class and clinicals really helped everything click for me, and seeing how what we do makes a real difference in patient care is really motivating.

Q: What will you remember most fondly about your time at NTC?

A: What I’ll remember most is the sense of community. Everyone at NTC was so friendly and easy to talk to. It made coming to campus something I looked forward to. The people, the events, the clubs and just the overall vibe really made a difference in my experience.

Q: Please share a memory or highlight that stands out to you.

A: One of the most memorable parts of the program was the time we spent in class after a long clinical week. We’d come together, share our experiences and learn from each other’s challenges and successes. It created a supportive environment, and I know that the connections I made will last a long time. Our instructors also made a huge impact; they were always willing to help us improve and were there for me during tough times. Their support meant a lot and really helped me stay motivated.

Q: Were you involved in any clubs/associations/intramurals during your time at NTC?

A: I was part of the Wisconsin Student Government here at NTC. It helped me meet students from all different programs - people I never would’ve crossed paths with just staying in my own field. It pushed me to step out of my comfort zone and get involved in new things. It also helped me grow in ways I didn’t expect. It opened my eyes to a whole side of leadership that I wouldn’t have experienced through my medical classes alone, and I’m grateful for that.

Q: How do you feel about graduating?

A: Honestly, I feel a little nervous. I have put so much time and effort into this it almost doesn’t feel real, but I am excited to see what comes next and I am proud of how far I’ve come and all I have accomplished!

Q: What are your plans for after graduation?

A: I have a job already set up at Marshfield Clinic surgery center, and I am excited to start as an official surgical technologist.

Q: What are your hopes/dreams/aspirations?

A: I hope to become a confident surgical technologist who can continue learning and growing. I want to be someone my team can rely on and someone who helps make a difference for patients every day.

Q: Reflecting on the relationships you’ve built with classmates, instructors, and staff, what is one thing you wish you could say to those who have supported you along the way?

A: I just want to say a huge thank you to everyone who supported me along the way! From classmates who kept things fun even during stressful times, to instructors who always believed in us and pushed us to do our best, to family who kept me going when the times got rough, you all made this journey so much better. I’m grateful for the laughs, the encouragement and the teamwork. I couldn’t have done it without you!

Q: If you could go back to your first day of college and give yourself one piece of advice, what would it be?

A: I would tell myself that it’s okay to be confident and to believe in my abilities. I’d remind myself not to hold back from trying new things or stepping up, even if I feel unsure. A lot of the things I was hesitant about ended up being the most rewarding experiences.

Q: Reflecting on your growth throughout college, what is one aspect of yourself that you’ve seen evolve the most? How do you feel about the person you’ve become?

A: Looking back, I’ve grown the most in how I carry myself. I’ve faced challenges, learned a lot and proved to myself that I’m stronger than I thought. I feel proud of the person I’ve become - someone who’s driven, capable and ready for what’s next.

Q: Is there anything else about your experience at NTC that you feel is important to share or that gives perspective to your story?

A: In a program like this, there are definitely hard moments, but it’s important to keep reminding yourself why you started. I had challenges just like everyone else, but they didn’t outweigh all the amazing experiences I had along the way. This program helped me grow and reach the goals I set for myself, and I’m proud of how far I’ve come. I started this journey because I wanted to help people, and now I’m excited to finally step into that role and make a difference.