Moraine Park Technical College Medical Assistant Program is excited to announce scheduling changes to our West Bend Cohort model. 

Students have asked for additional options and we listened. Yes we hear you!!  The improved cohort model will have the same great characteristics of students moving through the entire program at the same pace, with the same group, and at the same great location.  The big change is…….wait for it…..

The in-class commitment is now 2 days a week instead of 3!

Wait, what?  How did you remove an entire day from the program?   

Great question!  We will now be incorporating an online course into each semester to allow students flexibility in completing their coursework. The previous schedule had students coming to campus every Monday, Wednesday, and Friday, and while we know you all love seeing your fellow classmates and instructor three times a week, we also wanted to allow you to have more time for balance in your work, school and family life.

The new schedule will have you in class every Monday and Wednesday. Did we forget to mention the updates to our classroom, including more equipment and mock exam rooms? You need to check it out!

Our new schedule also helps to better align our courses to our program guidelines. You will be enrolled in courses where the content relates to each other at the same time. This allows for more comprehensive learning! I mean if you are learning about how the Digestive System works in Human Body it would be helpful to be learning the terminology in Medical Terminology in the same week, right?

Concerned about online learning? Rest assured that your time in class will allow for opportunities to receive additional resources and assistance with the completion of any online requirements. Your qualified instructors have taught it all and can offer assistance in any program course! We know now, more than ever, the importance of having qualified healthcare professionals in our community. The need to provide quality care will never change.

So, now is great of time as any to explore a career in healthcare and look into becoming a Medical Assistant. 

We cannot wait to have you join us! Still have more questions? Please feel free to reach out!

Erika Herriges, RN/BSN, MA/MO Instructor MPTC eherriges@morainepark.edu

Marisa Arnenson, MPTC Advisor marneson@morainepark.edu

In this strange and uncertain situation, you might find yourself with less structure to your days and more adjustment for life at home. During these times, it’s easy to become overwhelmed. Instead, see this as an opportunity to improve yourself and make progress toward your career goals.
Here are six ways you can make the most of this time and maximize your career development:

1. Update your resume. 
It is essential that you make your resume the best it can be—and now is a great time to do it. Identify your personal brand and strongest selling points. Highlight your unique accomplishments and transferrable skills. Optimize your resume with keywords and customize it each time you apply to a different position.

2. Create a professional online presence. 
Many employers check a candidate’s online presence to learn more about them. This may be even more prevalent in the COVID-19 climate with employers having limited access to candidates in person. Google yourself and clean up any inappropriate or questionable content. Create a LinkedIn profile, if you don’t already have one.

3. Build new skills. 
In today’s digital age, it’s possible to learn almost anything through the internet. Use your time at home to build new skills. Learn a new technical skill. Read a book or listen to a podcast related to your industry. Join a professional organization. This is your chance to take advantage of your time.

4. Practice virtual interviewing. 
In response to COVID-19, many companies have changed recruiting strategies to reduce/eliminate in-person interactions. For job seekers, this means virtual interviews—so be prepared to take your next interview digitally. Choose an at-home interview space and check your technology. Reach out to the MPTC Careers Instructors to set up a practice virtual mock interview.

5. Cultivate your professional network. 
Social distancing doesn’t mean that you have to put networking on hold. Use email or LinkedIn to reach out to professionals in industries and positions of interest. Embrace the sense of community. Participate in an online forum or join in a chat during a webinar. COVID-19 is a shared global experience. This is your chance to check in with the people you know and re-establish old connections.

6. Get help from the MPTC Careers Instructors. 
You don’t have to do this alone! Although not physically on campus, Careers Instructors are available to support you remotely. Take advantage of online resources through Canvas, Zoom and/or phone appointments. We are here to help and can provide guidance specific to your goals. With the uncertain economic state, it is important that you use this time to maximize your career readiness and make yourself as marketable as possible.

So stay hopeful, wash your hands, and try out these six ways to make progress toward your career goals.

Courtesy of the National Association of Colleges and Employers. (Adapted)

Contact a Careers Instructor today:

Beaver Dam

West Bend

Fond du Lac