From the Rockies to the Himalaya: Sammie’s Wilderness Medicine Semester with Aerie

In this episode of Gap Year Radio, I speak with Sammie Westfahl about her experience in Aerie Backcountry Medicine’s Fall Semester in Wilderness Medicine, an immersive program that blends emergency medicine training, rescue skills, wildland fire operations, and international expedition travel. Sammie shares how this sequence of certifications, field training, and international immersion challenged her academically, strengthened her confidence, and continues to influence her work today in fire ecology and volunteer EMS. Certifications and Skills Covered in the Semester -National Registry Emergency Medical Technician (EMT) -Wilderness EMT (WEMT) -Wildland Fire Line Qualification (Red Card) -High-Angle Rope Rescue Training -Expedition leadership and backcountry risk management -Clinical observation in international healthcare settings Aerie Backcountry Medicine https://www.aeriemedicine.com Connect with Us - Listen to Gap Year Radio wherever you get your podcasts or at gapyearradiopodcast.com - Contact Julia for help with gap year planning at enroutegapyear.com