Jesus Rivera’s goal to give back to the community and provide an elevated level of patient care influenced him to complete his master’s degree. An experienced battalion chief and paramedic, Rivera oversees eight fire stations, eight fire engines, a ladder truck, five ambulances and a hazmat team.
“There's a lot we do in our job, including providing the best possible service to our community. For me, furthering my education was a way to do just that. Through ASU Online, I was able to obtain a Master of Public Safety Leadership and Administration with a concentration in mobile integrated healthcare,” said Rivera.
With a busy schedule in his career and as a father, Rivera speaks highly of the ASU Online faculty that guided him through his education. The skills and knowledge he brought into his higher education provided a valuable crossover between the new information he was learning from his professors.
“The professors at Arizona State University are doing great work,” Rivera said. “They’re managing cities, managing fire departments and leading people. ASU professors share their knowledge, give real feedback and provide information that can help you in your career.”
While improving community outcomes was the main reason Rivera chose to pursue graduate studies, he was also looking to grow personally and professionally. Rivera explained that in addition to becoming a better battalion chief and overall professional, he learned how to be a better father.
“Attending school online helped me, because my kids have sports during the day,” explained Rivera. “We take them to different places and we have dinner as a family. ASU Online ensured I had a flexible schedule, so my family got the time they needed and I could be there for my wife and kids.”
With the education he acquired during his Master of Public Safety Leadership and Administration, Rivera was able to get people immediate access to care, build partnerships with mental health facilities, develop guidelines for future situations and ultimately live up to his goal of providing better medical services to his community.
Rivera encourages those wanting to make a difference in their community to take the leap and prioritize their education.
“Going back to school is worth it,” Rivera said. “Attending ASU Online is one of the greatest things I’ve ever done. I’ve been able to grow in my profession as a battalion chief and it has opened the door to future promotions. The best way to give back to our communities and families is by learning.”