Amanda Hreiz, of Jefferson College of Health Sciences in Roanoke, VA, discusses her experience as a student representative on the Virginia Society for Respiratory Care Board.
Put Your Student Benefits to Work
By Amanda Hreiz
Since I began my journey as a respiratory therapy student, I have recently had the opportunity to become involved in my state society. Our Program Director asked if I would be the student representative for the Jefferson College of Health Sciences Respiratory Therapy Program on the Virginia Society for Respiratory Care (VSRC) Board.
Insight gained
At my first VSRC Board meeting, I immediately gained a great deal of insight into the roles and responsibilities a career in respiratory therapy has to offer, as well as the many opportunities available to students.
Opportunities for students
For example, there are multiple scholarships existing to help with financial costs. In addition, there are quarterly conferences and events that give students not only a chance to get involved but also the opportunity to network with potential employers.
One event that I was very excited about attending was the upcoming AARC’s Political Advocacy Contact Team (PACT) Day on Capitol Hill. On this day, Respiratory Therapists come together to meet with their state representatives and lobby issues important to our profession and our patients.
Take on an active role
I believe it is important for all students to take an active role and become involved with their state society. We are the future of respiratory therapy and should be excited about the chance to show what we can do.
Amanda Hreiz has a B.A. from Virginia Polytechnic Institute and State University in Interdisciplinary Studies and is currently pursuing a B.S. in Respiratory Therapy (Class of 2019) at the Jefferson College of Health Sciences in Roanoke, VA. She is the Respiratory Therapy 2019 Class President and is a Student Representative on the VSRC Board. After graduation, Amanda plans to pursue a Neonatal-Pediatric specialty certification.
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Heather Willden is the Director of Governance and Strategic Initiatives for the AARC where she works with state affiliates as the HOD liaison. She also manages DEI efforts and strategic initiatives. Connect with her about these topics by email, AARConnect or LinkedIn. When she's not working, you can find her podcasting with her husband, exploring new hiking trails, photographing, and spending time with her family.
