University of Maine at Presque Isle


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Erika Valtinson is a Physician Assistant with Pines Health Services in Caribou. She graduated in 2005, earning a B.A. in biology with a pre-med focus. Two days after graduation, she started a 27-month Physician Assistant [PA] Program in Philadelphia. When she returned home last fall, it didn't take her long to land a job with a local physician's practice. Here's what Erika loved about the University of Maine at Presque Isle: • Small class sizes. These classed really encouraged her to be an active participant in her learning experience, allowed her to work closely with professors, and develop bonds with fellow students and professors that she still maintains. • Professors who care. The Science Department tailored the program to fit Erika's needs. Before she started taking classes here, she knew she wanted to enter a P.A. Program in Philadelphia. The department helped her fulfill all her pre-requisite work so she could move on to her post-graduate experience. During her time at UMPI, one professor even helped Erika find a job — at a local doctor's office — that she could do while completing her course work.	Mark Shea is the Community Development Director for the Maine Winter Sports Center. He graduated in 1995, earning his B.S. in Recreation with a focus in ski area management. Mark went on to work for the City of Caribou as its Recreation Director, and, a few years ago moved on to the MWSC, where he is responsible for establishing community skiing programs across the state. Here's what Mark loved about the University of Maine at Presque Isle: • Hands-on experience. Mark had the chance to complete two field work experiences while earning his degree: at Saddleback Mountain in Maine and Elk Meadows Ski resort in Utah. He also co-founded a student outing club on campus — Outdoor Adventure Program International — which is still going strong today. He uses the experiences and skills he gained during his field work and the establishment of OAPI all the time now as he creates new skiing programs for Maine communities. • A chance to play. Mark took advantage of the athletics programs offered on campus, playing on the men's soccer and men's baseball teams. He has said he never expected to be a two-sport athlete in college, but UMPI gave him that opportunity.