Faculty Spotlight - Amber Samaniego

Amber Samaniego teaches Medical Assisting and Phlebotomy, bringing experience as a Certified Medical Assistant to EvCC's Health Sciences pathway. She loves EvCC’s supportive environment and recommends its highly respected Medical Assisting program. Passionate about teaching, Amber advises students "make sure to find something you like to do outside of work, take time for self care, and leave work at work." For fun, Amber enjoys True Crime podcasts, reading, and rescuing dogs.

Amber Samaniego (middle) instructs as two medical assistant students practice injections.

Amber Samaniego (middle) instructs as two medical assistant students practice injections.

Medical Assistant and Phlebotomy instructor, Amber Samaniego.

What do you teach at EvCC?

I teach in the Health Science Department. I teach Medical Assisting and Phlebotomy courses. 

Tell us a little about your professional background.

I am a Certified Medical Assistant through the American Association of Medical Assistants. After graduating from EvCC in 2009 with an Associate in Technical Arts and my Medical Assisting Certificate I worked at Providence Medical Group as a Medical Assistant. In 2014 I had the opportunity to return to EvCC and teach in the same program I graduated from. Since then I have earned a Bachelor of Professional Technical Education and Instructional Design. These past 10 years of teaching have been incredibly rewarding. 

Why did you choose EvCC?

EvCC is a welcoming environment and is close to home. The support on campus is what got me through raising a young child while I was taking classes. My daughter was able to come to campus with me and attend the Early Learning Center while I was in class. This is what I needed in order to feel comfortable going back to school. 

Why would you recommend EvCC's Medical Assisting Program?

EvCCs Medical Assisting Program is respected by local clinics and our students are highly requested. We have recently revamped our program and made it even better. The faculty in this program are supportive and in your corner throughout your time in our program and beyond. 

What advice would you give to students considering a career in healthcare?

Those who choose healthcare often do it out of a desire to help others. But as the old adage goes, you cannot fill from an empty cup. Make sure to find something you like to do outside of work, take time for self care, leave work at work. 

What do you like to do for fun?

I love True Crime podcasts, I have been interested in True Crime since I was in very young. I think it is the psychology of it all. My next favorite thing is to read or listen to books I like all genres. Oh and rescuing dogs!! I have three here at home and have helped rescue many more. 

What is your favorite snack?

Reeses Peanut Butter cups and Skinny Pop!