Congratulations to Sequoia Clark, a Citrus College student who recently passed her National Registry of Emergency Medical Technicians exam.

After graduating from Claremont High School in 2022, Sequoia enrolled at McGill University in Montreal, Canada. She was in her second year of the school's physiology program when unexpected health issues forced her to return to California. While recovering, Sequoia decided to take classes at Citrus College. She enrolled in the emergency medical technician (EMT) program in August 2024. "I decided to continue my studies on the pre-med track or pivot to a more research-based field," she explained.

Although Sequoia says her classes were "challenging" and "time consuming," she also found them to be incredibly rewarding. "The content is rigorous and you are expected to learn and execute new skills on a weekly basis, along with continuous tests on new concepts to ensure that you are on the right track," she said. "However, being able to make a direct impact on patient outcomes has been exciting."

Performing her newfound skills in real-life settings was Sequoia's favorite aspect of the EMT program. "I have had the opportunity to do vital sets, preform EKGs, take blood glucose levels and manually ventilate patients," she said. "I assisted in procedures for open bone fractures, aided in bleeding control and monitored postictal patients. I even responded to an emergency call involving a patient who had been shot in the abdomen."

These hands-on experiences are sure to prove valuable as Sequoia embarks on her career. Now that she has completed her EMT certification, Sequoia's next step is to work for an ambulance company or secure a position as an emergency room technician. She also plans on continuing her Citrus College education and expects to finish her general education requirements later this year. Ultimately, Sequoia hopes to transfer to a four-year school to earn a bachelor's degree, attend medical school and become a doctor.

According to Sequoia, Citrus College was a great place to begin this journey. "I would recommend Citrus College's EMT program to anyone looking for hands-on medical experience and who has the drive to stay committed amidst the fast pace and high expectations," she said.

We are so glad you chose Citrus College, Sequoia. Good luck in the future!