At Laurel Ridge Community College, we are proud to offer comprehensive and in-demand healthcare programs. We chatted recently with Janet Michael on The Valley Today, where our faculty shared insights into the various career opportunities for which our health professions courses prepare students.
Guy Curtis, our director of marketing, kicked off the conversation by highlighting the versatile health professions pathways we offer. Our extensive range of programs, including Fast-Track courses, are designed to equip students for immediate employment in the healthcare sector.
Kate Gochenour, director of medical laboratory technology, provided an in-depth look at the Medical Laboratory Technology program she directs. This program challenges the common notion that healthcare careers are confined to roles involving direct patient interaction. Our MLT program trains students to perform crucial diagnostic testing. With hybrid learning models, the curriculum accommodates various schedules.
Dr. Rekha Parameswaran, with 28 years of experience, elaborated on our Physical Therapist Assistant program. She shared insights into the hands-on nature of the course, the diverse practice settings available post-graduation, and the importance of compassion and strong interpersonal skills in this field.
Dr. Scott Vanderkooi, dean of health professions, provided a behind-the-scenes look at the extensive support our faculty receive to ensure student success. He emphasized the continuous growth and demand in healthcare fields, particularly within the Shenandoah Valley, and the diverse student base we cater to, from recent high school graduates to adults seeking career changes.
We also discussed the significant role that various healthcare employers, like Blue Ridge Hospice and local hospitals, play in providing real-world experience to our students through internships and clinical rotations. Our commitment to community and high employment rates post-graduation reflect the success of our programs.
Looking ahead, we aim to keep pace with the evolving needs of the healthcare industry, ensuring our programs remain relevant and adapt to new demands. With the support of initiatives like G3 funding, many of our students can complete these rigorous programs without the burden of financial strain, making healthcare careers accessible to a broader audience.
For those interested in joining our esteemed programs, we provide numerous resources, including advising sessions, dual enrollment for high school students, and information sessions. Applications for the MLT program are due by May 1, and the PTA program is accepting applications from April 15 to May 15.