In this Alumni Spotlight we caught up with Julia Phelps, Medical Assistant graduate who currently works at Orthopedic & Sports Medicine of Erie.
What where you doing prior to enrollment? What made you enroll in school?
Prior to attending Great Lakes institute of technology I was waitressing at a restaurant that I had been at for years and was also working full-time at a local hospital as a switchboard operator. Life was busy working two jobs and having a young child. I wanted to better our lives and always knew the medical field was for me. I then decided to enroll at Great Lakes for the Medical Assisting program.
Where have you worked since you graduated and where do you currently work? What is your title?
I did my internship at Osteopathic Cardiology Associates and I’m still employed there to this day! My current title is Medical Assistant. We are a small practice so I am cross-trained on many different facets of the practice. I have a very busy position as I work closely with our physician and physician assistant. From rooming patients to preparing paperwork and receiving authorizations. Great Lakes prepared me for the clinical and clerical side of medical assisting.
What types of things do you do there day to day?
Over the years I have learned so much. That’s the best part of medicine, it’s always changing! I always knew I wanted to help people and I believe giving care and comfort are the two most important things in life.
What did you like most about attending Great Lakes? How did Great Lakes prepare you for your job?
Great Lakes offers programs that appeal to working moms with children who need flexibility when things pop up. I was able to work, spend time with my daughter, and go to school, and never felt overwhelmed or pressured. I always knew I had good people in my corner cheering me on. The instructors were always so supportive and helpful.
What advice can you give current students and new graduates that can help them be successful?
My advice to anyone thinking of enrolling is jump! You won’t regret it.
