“Deciding on my field of study and career path was easy for me. Since childhood, I’ve dreamed of becoming a firefighter, so the decision to attend Utah Valley University (UVU) to earn the necessary certifications felt like a perfect step toward achieving that goal.

“Since enrolling four years ago, I have participated in UVU’s Wildland Firefighter Program, EMT Basic Program, Recruit Candidate Fire Academy, and Advanced EMT program. In addition to providing me with the necessary knowledge and certifications to accomplish my career aspirations, UVU has offered me so much more. Through each program, I had experiences and memories that will last a lifetime. I have formed bonds and relationships with both my classmates and instructors, and I cherish them to this day. After three years of working hard in school, I was honored to accept a full-time firefighter position with the South Salt Lake Fire Department.

“Now, I am ready to advance further in my career and earn my paramedic certification. When I applied and went through UVU’s Paramedic Program application process, I was informed that the program would be moving to a new facility in Lehi.

“Like most students that attend UVU, I commute to the university. The new building provides a central location for students throughout Salt Lake County, Utah County, and beyond. In addition to its prime location, it offers convenient transportation options. The facility is just minutes from Interstate 15 for those driving to class. It is also located near the UTA Frontrunner Train for those who come to campus via public transport.

“Besides the UVU Paramedic Program, the new facility is home to UVU’s Advanced EMT, Respiratory Therapy, Dental Hygiene, and Police Academy POST programs. Specializing in each field of study, the new facility offers enhanced classrooms, state-of-the-art laboratories, and real-world simulation stations. These resources provide UVU students with enhanced learning experiences and better prepare them to work in their desired fields.

“The new UVU Lehi building directly impacts the health and safety of our communities. In addition to the services offered, many programs require and provide clinical rotations, ride-along programs, and hands-on experience opportunities for attending students. These highly trained, extremely motivated individuals play a vital role daily in the overall health and safety of those within their communities.

“I am honored to be one of the first to study within this new building. Like myself, many are living their dreams because of UVU’s commitment to its students.”