Madison Stephenson: Exercise Science Skip to main content
Student Spotlights

Madison Stephenson: Exercise Science

Madison was a BYU EMT Intern during Winter 2025.

Briefly explain what you did and the result of your internship.

During my EMT internship, I shadowed and assisted paramedics on emergency calls, gaining firsthand experience in patient care, trauma assessment, and fast-paced decision-making. I practiced taking vitals, observed how EMTs communicated under pressure, and learned how to stay calm and focused in high-stress situations. This experience deepened my interest in emergency medicine and gave me more confidence in my ability to stay composed and helpful when people need it most.

What did you learn on your internship that you were not expecting to learn?

One thing I didn’t expect to learn during my EMT internship was just how crucial CPR is in saving lives. I didn’t witness it firsthand, but my instructors emphasized it constantly—how even a few minutes of chest compressions before EMS arrives can double or triple a person’s chances of survival. Hearing real stories from the field made it feel so much more real to me. It made me realize that CPR isn’t just a skill we memorize—it’s something that can actually give someone another shot at life.

Please share how your experience led to personal inspiration or insightful revelation.

One thing my experience taught me was to trust my gut. EMTs don’t rely only on textbook knowledge—they also learn to listen to that inner voice when something feels off. My instructors shared stories where instinct made all the difference, even when the signs didn’t point clearly to a diagnosis. It inspired me to be more confident in those moments of uncertainty, because in emergency medicine, trusting your instincts can literally save a life.

Would you recommend this internship to other students?

Yes! Not only will you learn life saving knowledge, becoming an EMT can open doors to so many new opportunities. You’ll learn cool stories, meet amazing people, it is worth it.