Andover Mom Chooses Butler for EMT Career Path

For Andover resident Amber Holeman, returning to a college classroom wasn’t just about earning a credential—it was about answering a calling.

“I realized over the years that I really enjoy helping people,” Holeman said. “I thrive in a fast-paced environment and during crises.” After earning a bachelor’s in psychology over a decade ago, she considered a career in emergency services for years but couldn’t make it work as a single parent.

Now married with an adult daughter living in Minnesota and two kids thriving in middle school, she finally has the opportunity to follow her passion. “I like the idea of constantly being able to help people,” she said. “To have a hands on job, out in the community, using my psychology degree and have no two days exactly the same is a very good fit for me.”

Before enrolling, Holeman completed several ambulance ride-alongs to confirm her decision. “Those ride-alongs definitely confirmed that this is where I belong,” she said.

Choosing Butler came naturally. “Butler was always recommended by paramedics and has a great reputation overall,” she said. The program’s schedule, location, and affordability, plus a significant scholarship, sealed her decision.

Holeman said her experience at Butler has been nothing short of excellent. “The enrollment and scholarship processes were second to none,” she said. “If every college followed Butler’s example, I think a lot more people would be able and willing to pursue higher education.”