Ten dedicated students took the next step towards a career in saving lives as they graduated from the Cochise College Paramedicine Program at the Downtown Center. The graduates were honored
in a recognition ceremony on Thursday, Sept. 28, marking the culmination of their rigorous training and the beginning of their journey as paramedics.
Paramedicine is an intensive program that equips students with the critical skills to respond to emergencies, ensuring patients receive vital medical attention before they reach a hospital. The program encompasses basic and advanced medical treatment techniques administered during transportation to a medical facility.
Throughout the program, students spent more than 500 hours in the classroom. Additionally, they dedicated another 500 hours to hands-on clinical training, where they applied their knowledge in real-world situations. The Paramedicine Associate of Applied Science degree prepares the student to become a nationally registered paramedic.
Beth Hill, Dean of Nursing, Allied Health, and Emergency Medicine Director, praised the graduates during the ceremony. She said, “This occasion celebrates the countless hours, dedication, sacrifice, and unwavering commitment to the noblest of professions that embodies compassion, courage, and care.” Dean Hill also extended her gratitude to the field preceptors, families, and friends who supported these students throughout their educational journey.
Addressing the graduates, Hill emphasized the challenges and rewards that await them in their new careers as a paramedic. She said, “You are about to embark on a career that will test your limits. It will challenge your knowledge and touch your heart. Remember, you are not alone. You are now part of a community that shares your passion for saving lives. Never forget the profound impact you have on the life of those you serve.”
The class’s valedictorian, Michelle Robbins, shared her optimism about this moment, “I’m very excited for everyone and where our careers will take us. We all made it through the program!”
The graduates are Maryanna Barnes, Brianna Brouse, Paulian Duran, Kataryna Le Bel Schorremans, Brice Madden, Myrna Puzzi, Michelle Robbins, Christopher Skinner, Daniel Valenzuela and James Wallace.
The impact of their achievement extends beyond the classroom, as many of these graduates join the ranks of Cochise County fire departments, clinics and hospitals. Their commitment to serving their community and saving lives is evident and deeply appreciated.
Robbins will work at the Fry Fire District and Canyon Vista Medical Center’s Emergency Room. Encouraging incoming students, she said, “Be prepared. The program is very challenging. Do not let failure discourage you; rather, let it drive you.”
Cochise College offers a comprehensive paramedicine program certified by the Arizona Department of Health Services, Bureau of Emergency Medical Services (ADHS-BEMS).
For more information about the paramedicine program at Cochise College, please visit cochise.edu/paramedicine.