Four Marist seniors are on track to be certified EMTs! Ellie Fey, Timothy Graber, Ronnie Shalabi, and Christine Stephenson graduated from Chicago Ambulance Alliance EMT program on Friday, February 21. They will now take the certification test after graduation and with a passing grade, they will be certified EMT’s. Chicago Ambulance Alliance has guaranteed job placement with their company once they pass the test.
“I loved every moment of the Trace EMT class. It truly gave my senior year meaning and was paramount in my college applications. Although it’s hard to pick, my favorite part of the class was when we covered cardiac emergencies and the pathophysiology of the heart. This section of the class was easily the most interesting in my opinion. The class also served as an introduction to my future, as I aspire to one day practice medicine. I recommend this class to anyone who is even remotely interested.” Timothy Graber shared.
This is the first time that Marist has worked with the Chicago Ambulance Alliance in order to provide this program. The students started the course in October and met 3 nights a week from 5:30pm-10:00pm, where they studied and trained to provide both emergency and non-emergency care to trauma, medical and behavioral patients. They were also required to complete 48 hours of ride time in an ambulance with certified personnel.
“What I liked most about the EMT course was how hands on it was. We did a lot of practicals and that helped me feel better prepared for my future as an EMT. My goal is to EMT part time while attending college for nursing. Then of course I hope to be a nurse.” Christine Stephenson
Ellie Fey was named Valedictorian of the class earning a 100% in the course.
Ellie shared:
“The EMT course was challenging, but an incredible experience. The knowledge I gained about anatomy, physiology, and Emergency medicine will certainly help me in the medical field. The instructors were very understanding and offered help every step of the way.”
We are excited that beginning in the 2025-26 school year, we will offer this program as a course at Marist! Our Marist teacher will partner with Chicago Ambulance Alliance to offer the course to Marist seniors. Once they complete the course, they will be able to take the certification exam. Next year’s course will be part of the student’s Marist schedule and it is a year long course.
” What I liked most about the EMT class was the life saving skills that I will carry with me wherever I go and how hands on the class was. As for my career goals I wish to go into the medical field and become an ophthalmologist surgeon.” said Ronnie Shalabi.
Below are some photos from the graduation event:
