APEX Lecture features Amber Koch
ASUMH invites the public to attend an APEX student presentation at noon on Monday, December 1. The goal of Apex is for an ASUMH student, in collaboration with an ASUMH faculty member, to pursue and research a subject of inquiry, evaluate the subject’s significance, create a project reflecting the scholarship, and share the experience with ASUMH and the Mountain Home community through a lecture series.
This year’s lecture is entitled “How Cultural Understanding Shapes Emergency Treatment,” presented by Amber Koch.
In her presentation, Amber will explore the importance of recognizing cultural diversity and varying secular perspectives when treating patients in the EMS setting. She will highlight both general and local considerations relevant to pre-hospital care. While not an exhaustive review of all cultural dynamics an EMS provider may encounter, it will offer a broad overview, emphasizing the importance of cultural awareness and adaptability when responding to emergencies in diverse communities.
About Amber:
Amber Koch was raised in the Mountain Home area before relocating after high school. She has lived across the United States as well as in Australia, giving her firsthand exposure to a wide range of cultures. These experiences, combined with a strong personal interest in human societies, led her to pursue a Bachelor of Science in Anthropology from Missouri State University, where she graduated in May 2015.
Growing up within multiple cultural contexts nurtured Amber's appreciation for diverse perspectives and fueled her passion for anthropology. However, her desire to help others in high-pressure environments ultimately drew her to the field of Emergency Medical Services (EMS), where she could combine cultural understanding with real-time medical response.
Since earning her degree, Amber has focused on building a career in EMS. She is set to graduate with an Associate of Science in Paramedic Studies from ASUMH in December 2025. Following this, she plans to gain field experience before pursuing a bridge program to become a Registered Nurse. Her long-term goal is to serve as both a Flight Medic and Flight Nurse.
Amber has been mentored by Tasia Charles, Director of EMS Studies at ASUMH. Tasia is a seasoned paramedic with over 20 years of experience in the field and currently serves with a local EMS service in addition to being an instructor at ASUMH.
Amber's presentation will be Monday, December 1 at 12:00 p.m. in McMullin Lecture Hall (Dryer 200). The ASUMH community and Mountain Home community at large are invited to attend. The presentation will run approximately 45 minutes to be followed by questions from the audience. A reception will immediately follow in the 2nd floor lobby of Dryer Hall.
