UNIVERSITY PARK, Pa. — Alyssa Fedorshak is not your typical college student. Between juggling a full course load as a student majoring in biobehavioral health, working at two emergency medical services (EMS) agencies and preparing for medical school, Fedorshak is doing it all. Her journey is a testament to the profound impact that Penn State’s EMS program can have on students who are passionate about patient care and are eager to make a difference.  

From an early age, Fedorshak’s fascination with the human body was evident. Raised by a nurse mom and State Trooper dad, she grew up immersed in a world of healthcare and emergency response. By fourth grade, she had memorized all the major bones, eagerly ran to the human body and health books at the library, and unwrapped anatomical models for Christmas. This early passion laid the groundwork for her decision to join Penn State’s EMS program — a decision that has profoundly shaped her path to medical school and where, she said, she realized how much she loves patient care.  

But what really fuels Fedorshak? The relationships, she said. As she puts it, “Being an EMT [emergency medical technician] opens the door to the reality of patient care. It’s not for everyone, and that’s okay. But for me, I love the interactions and building those connections with people.” 

Throughout her time in the University Ambulance Service, she noted that her crew and the people she interacts with are what matters most. The mentor-mentee dynamic within her team has allowed her to be a better EMT as it has provided her with a safe space to give and receive feedback, she said. The crew constantly supports each other with accomplishing work-related duties, processing emotions and keeping each other accountable.  

This field has taught her humility and given her the opportunity to be there for her fellow Penn Staters in their most vulnerable conditions, she said. Fedorshak’s dual roles as a student and EMT showcase the program’s commitment to practical learning and patient interaction. 

“I love having the honor, privilege, and desire to be there for my peers, and express compassion to them as they struggle through illness and other difficult dynamics of their life," Fedorshak said. "I’ve had patients say to me, ‘Thank you for listening and being so kind to me. It goes a long way.”  

To become an EMT at Penn State, students need to be certified which can be completed independently, or through the Kinesiology 403 (EMT Training Course) class.  

Kinesiology 403 is a 4-credit course that prepares students at the Emergency Medical Technician Basic level using both a classroom and lab setting. Upon course completion, students will be prepared for the PA Department of Health and National Registry examinations. Once obtained, students can apply for an EMT position in any state in the country. 

As a teaching assistant (TA) for Kinesiology 403, Fedorshak is in a unique position to inspire and guide the next generation of EMTs.  

Fedorshak’s firsthand experience as a student and now as an instructor allows her to provide invaluable support and encouragement. Having been in their shoes, Fedorshak understands the nerves and self-doubt that come with learning how to save lives. She said that “even as a TA, the qualities you have as an EMT are reflected as an instructor.”  

The Penn State EMS program, which is housed within University Health Services, is designed not just to educate but to also immerse students in a unique hands-on experience crucial for their growth as potential medical providers. In addition to working day and night shifts, Fedorshak has also worked at concerts, football games and other events, all while gaining insight into a variety of emergency scenarios. This has allowed her to have a well-rounded experience and is preparing her for medical school.  

“The program allows you to be involved in more than just clinical work," said Fedorshak. "You get to participate in campus events and see how your skills apply in diverse situations.” 

With medical school on the horizon, she said she plans to pursue a career that emphasizes high-quality patient care and advocacy as patients navigate their health. She values personal connection and is willing to specialize in world medicine. Although Fedorshak isn't fully certain what specialty she wants to pursue, she said, she has considered intensive care medicine, family medicine, pediatric emergency medicine, and neurosurgery as her potential options. Her experiences with Penn State’s EMS program have solidified her commitment to a field where empathy and expertise intersect.  

Fedorshak encourages students with the ambition to learn and who are interested in medicine to join the Penn State EMS program. “The [Kinesiology 403] class will fuel you to be a competent EMT — to be the best you can be,” she said.

Those considering a career in emergency medical services or the medical field can find more information on the Penn State EMS program and course through the Student Affairs website.