Bighorn Bulletin

Oasis Graduate Charts a Path in Cardiac Sonography

Oasis Academy 2022 graduate Kaitlyn Hert has found her passion and success in the medical field. After earning both a high school diploma and an Associate of Science degree at Oasis Academy and Western Nevada College in May 2022, the alum continued her education at the College of Southern Nevada in Las Vegas. There, she completed an Associate of Applied Science (AAS) with a major in Diagnostic Cardiac Sonography. She now works in both a hospital and an outpatient facility, performing cardiac and vascular ultrasounds.

“I really appreciated how Oasis set me up for the success I’ve achieved. I was able to do two years of college completely free, and pretty much go right into my specialized program after graduation,” Hert said. “That was such a huge help to have those credits under my belt before moving to Vegas,” she added.

Looking ahead, Hert is not done with her education and has already mapped out her future plans.

“I plan on going back to school to complete a bachelor’s with an emphasis in health science management, and I also plan on sitting for the national vascular registry exams to obtain those credentials in addition to the ones I already have,” she said.

When asked about advice for future students, Hert emphasized perseverance. 

“Hard work pays off,” she said. “I know it sounds boring, and in the moment usually doesn’t feel very fun, but if you’re willing to put in the work, there’s no telling what you might accomplish.”

Hert especially wanted to express her deep gratitude for her family. 

“I do want to extend a BIG thank you to my family,” Hert said. “They stood by me and supported me through the past handful of years, and I wouldn’t be where I am without them.”

As this Oasis alum continues to advance in the field of cardiac sonography, her story stands as a testament to the power of early college programs, determination, and family support.

FFA Students Attend Summer Leadership Camp in Lake Tahoe

Eleven students from Oasis Academy’s FFA chapter recently returned from a week at the annual Nevada FFA Summer Leadership Camp, held at the historic 4-H Camp at Lake Tahoe. The camp, which drew over 100 FFA members from across the state, offered a blend of leadership workshops, team-building activities, and classic summer fun.

Throughout the week, Oasis Academy students participated in a variety of workshops designed to develop leadership skills and introduce them to the many opportunities available through FFA. The camp’s curriculum focused on personal growth, teamwork, and social-emotional development, all set against the backdrop of Lake Tahoe’s natural beauty.

Along with the workshops, recreational activities played a big part in the experience with students enjoying swimming, basketball, volleyball, relay races and chapter bonding events. These activities helped students forge new friendships and connections with FFA students from across the state and within their own chapter. 

FFA Advisor Jackie Bogdanowicz emphasized the importance of the camp for both new and returning members.

“Summer Leadership Camp is a wonderful opportunity for our FFA members each year,” Bogdanowicz said. “It’s one of my favorite events because it allows students to have fun, make new friends, and grow as leaders. And of course, the Lake Tahoe setting is unbeatable.”

Oasis Academy’s FFA members and officers have already begun planning for the upcoming school year. To learn more about Oasis Academy FFA, contact Advisor Jackie Bogdanowicz.