Aurora C.

National Science Foundation Chemistry and GlaxoSmithKline Women in Science Scholar

Asheville, North Carolina, United States

About

My long-term goal is to become a paramedic and later transition into a Physician Assistant role through a bridge program. I’m especially interested in how prehospital decision-making influences downstream care, and how strong clinical judgment carries across different levels of medicine. I’m drawn to work that requires both technical competence and personal responsibility, where being reliable, thorough, and adaptable isn’t optional, but expected.

Experience

  • Emergency Medical Technician at Buncombe County Rescue Squad
    May 2025 - Present · 1 yr 2 mos

    Provides prehospital patient care and medical transport with a focus on safety, clinical accuracy, and adherence to established protocols. Performs patient assessment, basic life support interventions, and operation of emergency medical equipment in dynamic environments. Maintains accurate documentation and ensures effective handoff communication to receiving facilities. Demonstrates strong situational awareness, teamwork, and adaptability while managing diverse patient populations and high-acuity scenarios.

  • Emergency Medical Technician at Reynolds Volunteer Fire Department
    Aug 2022 - Present · 3 yrs 11 mos

    Responds to fire and medical emergencies, providing patient care, scene support, and operational assistance in high-risk environments. Conducts patient assessments, supports emergency interventions, and contributes to coordinated response efforts. Maintains professionalism under pressure while following safety protocols and departmental procedures. Actively participates in ongoing training to enhance clinical skills, emergency response capabilities, and operational readiness.

  • Toxicology Extraction Analyst at Keystone Laboratories, Inc.
    Feb 2026 - Present · 5 mos

    Performs laboratory-based extraction and preparation of biological specimens for toxicological analysis in a regulated environment. Follows established standard operating procedures (SOPs) to ensure accuracy, consistency, and compliance with quality and safety standards. Handles and processes sensitive specimens, including urine and other biological materials, while maintaining strict chain-of-custody and documentation practices. Prepares reagents, operates laboratory equipment, and supports workflow efficiency through organization and attention to detail. Collaborates with laboratory staff to maintain clean workspaces, uphold quality control measures, and ensure timely processing of samples.

  • University of North Carolina Asheville (3 yrs 6 mos)
    • Research Assistant
      Jan 2023 - Present · 3 yrs 6 mos

      Conducts laboratory research focused on antimicrobial strategies, supporting experimental design, literature analysis, and method development. Performs data collection, quantitative analysis, and interpretation while maintaining detailed and organized records. Assists in preparing reports and presenting findings, ensuring accuracy and reproducibility of results. Operates within a structured laboratory environment with adherence to safety protocols and research standards.

    • Teaching Assistant
      Aug 2023 - Dec 2023 · 5 mos

      Supported laboratory instruction by maintaining a safe and organized learning environment and reinforcing core scientific concepts. Supervised students during laboratory activities, ensuring adherence to safety protocols and proper technique. Provided guidance, answered questions, and assisted in evaluating student understanding to support effective learning outcomes.

  • Pharmacy Technician at Sona Pharmacies
    Dec 2023 - May 2025 · 1 yr 6 mos

    Assisted in prescription processing under the supervision of a licensed pharmacist, ensuring accuracy in medication dispensing, labeling, and packaging. Maintained compliance with regulatory standards while handling sensitive patient information and medications. Provided customer service, supported workflow efficiency, and upheld quality assurance practices in a fast-paced healthcare environment.