Hockey player, coach, chef, preschool teacher, and soon-to-be EMT Ryleigh Belanger isn’t your average high school graduate. While most students go through four years of high school, Ryleigh finished two years early.
Ryleigh became a VLACS student in eighth grade, where she gave this new learning environment a try and loved it. After eighth grade, Ryleigh went back to public high school as a sophomore, having already earned her freshman-year credits at VLACS.
She then completed her sophomore and part of her junior year before transitioning back to VLACS. This switch allowed her to finish her junior and senior years online and graduate early.
“VLACS is the only reason I was able to leave my public school halfway through the year and still manage to graduate early,” she explained.
Pursuing a Career as an EMT/Firefighter
At just 17 years old, Ryleigh’s already well on her way to becoming a certified EMT and firefighter.
“I’m one of the youngest EMTs in my class,” Ryleigh says proudly.
Despite being one of the youngest in her class, she secured a grant for her EMT classes and will be sworn in as a firefighter-EMT the week of her 18th birthday in October.
“I know I’m super young… but I can be a great asset,” she confidently told her local fire department.
Ryleigh’s journey into emergency medical services was inspired by her passion for helping people. Working for the police and State Liquor Commission at a young age gave her a taste of the civil service field. Initially considering a career in law enforcement, Ryleigh found her calling in emergency medicine.
Managing a Busy Schedule
Even with her busy schedule, which includes working, coaching hockey, and attending EMT classes, she manages to excel in her studies and pursue her interests. VLACS provided her with the flexibility she needed to balance these commitments.
“Because of VLACS, I was able to have a full-time job,” she acknowledges gratefully.
Ryleigh’s typical day involves a whirlwind of activities, from doing clinical rotations at a hospital to taking terrorist disaster courses.
Hands-On Learning and Future Plans
As she navigates through her EMT training, Ryleigh continues to embrace hands-on experiences and relishes the opportunity to interact with patients.
“I enjoy the hands-on stuff, and I like talking to patients… I just like helping people,” she explains.
Her enthusiasm for her chosen career path shines through as she eagerly anticipates the challenges and rewards that lie ahead.
As Ryleigh prepares to turn 18 and officially start her career as an EMT and firefighter, she remains enthusiastic about the future. As she embarks on the next chapter of her life, Ryleigh’s journey serves as a reminder that with the right mindset and support, anything is possible.
Just like Ryleigh, you can enjoy the flexibility to design your own education schedule, seamlessly balancing your studies with work, hobbies, and personal interests. Discover how becoming a VLACS student can fit into your life by exploring our website or joining an upcoming open house webinar.
