Jordan Turner ‘24 is a junior in Anna Maria College’s Fire Science program who unexpectedly discovered her passion for fighting fires after interning with the Carver Fire Department as a high school student.
After graduating high school, Turner researched Fire Science programs in the area and discovered Anna Maria’s strong reputation in the field.
“Anna Maria really gave me the opportunity to broaden my horizons and see all the different aspects of firefighting careers and now I kind of wanted to see wherever it takes me. I got certified as a dispatcher, so I definitely want to explore that route. I’m very interested now in fire investigation. It would be cool to kind of see it all,” Turner said about the different facets of fire science she explores every day in her courses.
Turner credits her professors for being invested in her future and for actively helping her achieve her goals. The faculty provided real world experiences which not only enhanced her education, but also looked impressive on a resume.
“Our professors bend over backwards for us. They’re the type that would give the shirt off their back for you,” Turner said.
As a woman looking at a career in a traditionally male profession, Turner believes in overcoming challenges and has seen many departments become more accepting towards women. Turner is happy to be part of a changing future.
“When I did my internship, I felt like it was something that I could do and could succeed in. I liked that I could defy the odds,” she said.
In addition to being a fire science student, Turner is also an Anna Maria cheerleader and has been on the Dean’s List throughout all four semesters so far.
Turner said that she is very proud of being an Anna Maria College student and that she would not change a thing about the fire science program.
“This program has been very good to me. Every opportunity that I’ve had, I’ve taken. I feel like I’m really doing well here and everybody at Anna Maria wants you to succeed. And I feel at some schools, you’re just a number but at Anna Maria you are not. Everybody wants to see you succeed,” Turner said.
Anna Maria College also offers an online Fire Science degree that is ideal for those needing a bit more flexibility.
