Building the Future Medical Community

Minnesota native and mother of two, Chelsie Babl moved to South Dakota in 2010 after her parents made the move. Before then, Babl spent her whole life in Cottonwood, Minnesota, where she initially planned to pursue a career in education. “I first got an administrative degree at a local tech school,” Babl says. “Later, I went back to school and received a child development degree, but nothing I did felt like the right fit.”

A friend recommended a local phlebotomy program, so Babl enrolled. In that program, Babl learned to draw blood for laboratory testing and, in doing so, found a fulfilling career path. “It just took off from there,” she says. “I got a job in an emergency room, and when I moved here, I took an aide position at Huron Regional Medical Center.”

Making the move to health care helped Babl feel inspired by her work, but the staff at HRMC did their part, too.

“I’ve always been a helper, and I always want to be there for people,” Babl says. “I’ve loved my time at HRMC. The people I work with are wonderful. They’re the ones who gave me the confidence to apply for the scholarship.”

Making Practical Decisions

Babl received the HRMC Foundation Commitment Scholarship to attend Southeast Technical College and become a licensed practical nurse (LPN). In return, Babl is committed to being a helper to Huron, serving as an LPN at HRMC after her education is complete.

“I’m really grateful to receive the HRMC Foundation’s support,” Babl says. “The peace of mind helps me focus on my studies.”

Babl made her education plans prior to the COVID-19 outbreak. So far, the pandemic hasn’t stopped her from pursuing her degree, even if it means juggling her studies with caring for two young children.

“It’s no walk in the park, but we take it one day at a time,” Babl says. “My son started kindergarten this year and had to wear a mask, and a few of my classes are online instead of in-person. It required some adjustments, but there’s no stopping me. Nursing is where I want to be.”

If you’re interested in learning more about HRMC Foundation scholarships, visit the scholarship section of our website. If you’d like help in learning if a career in the medical field is for you, contact HRMC health care workforce recruiter at 605-353-6589 or thaatvedt@huronregional.org.

Kim Rieger