My second group of dialysis technician students has successfully completed the rather difficult 6 month course. Today was final exam day, and I am feeling so very proud of my group. The lowest score was 80% (highest was 95%), so that means that they all passed with flying colors. They are a bright and inquisitive bunch of people, ranging in age from 18 to 40 something. Many are single parents, most of them work full-time, and some of them had little or no medical background when they started the class. My current students will all be certified by the state of CA. as hemodialysis technicians, which pretty much guarantees them a good job. Tomorrow is graduation day! I’m gonna put on my party dress (red), with toenails painted to match, and cry like a baby during the entire ceremony. Then Mr. Beckwall and I go out and DANCE!
To all the educators, students and administrators out there - I salute you and the job that you do. It is challenging and frustrating at times, and nobody gets enough recognition for their work. But, ultimately, the rewards are outstanding.
I am really looking forward to starting my next class in January…(and these extended breaks are pretty cool, too - school is closed starting the 18th and we go back on the 3rd of January!)