facebook pixel Skip to Main Content
Idaho State University home

Medical Assisting

Susan Carter Medical Assisting Instructor

Susan Carter

Coordinator / Clinical Assistant Professor

Office: Owen-Redfield Complex 242

208-282-4317

susancarter@isu.edu

Teaching Experience

Began teaching in the Medical Assisting Program at the College of Technology in August of 2014

College and Highlights

I have been associated with ISU since 1978. When I first moved to Pocatello from upstate New York, I worked as an Administrative Assistant in the Anthropology, Sociology, and Social Work department. From there, I chose to attend the Upholstery Program in the College of Technology.  Together, with my husband, who also graduated from this program, we have run an upholstery business for over 30 years. After many years of very physical work, I opted to return to ISU and get my associate degree in Medical Assisting.  I have always been interested in wellness, and this seemed like the best way to have direct contact with patients, to be able to educate them concerning their own health. When the opportunity to teach arose, I once again returned to the CoT and got a bachelor’s degree in Human Resource Development and Technical Education.

I accepted a position at the Student Health Center at ISU in 2012, where I worked with group of exceptional healthcare workers, caring for the needs of students, faculty, and staff on campus. I still have a strong connection with the University Health Center providers and staff.  We work closely together to ensure our students are receiving up-to-date information and instruction.

I began teaching in the Medical Assisting program in 2014 and am grateful every day that I get to do this work.  Connecting with students in this program and being able to contribute to their education and life career is very rewarding. Our program brings students from many backgrounds together to pursue a career that gives them the ability to touch the lives of patients, to be advocates for healthcare, and to assist people who deserve quality care.

Medical Assisting Professional Experience:

Health West, Inc.

Student Health Center, ISU

My first medical assisting job was at Health West, a federally funded clinic whose motto is “Healthcare for Everyone.” I was fortunate enough to work side-by-side with Robin Terrell, my close friend from the MA program. It was there that we both worked with a physician who made a lasting impression on us.  At the end of every day, Dr. Ty Salness would thank his staff for the work we had done with people who, without Health West, would quite possibly have gone without any healthcare.  Every evening he would say, “We helped people today.”  That mentality resonated with me and I have much pride in the quality care we have given to every patient.

I feel that I have been afforded the opportunity to affect positive change, directly with the students who trust us with their education and, indirectly, through the work that they will do when they join the growing field of Medical Assistants.

Becky Mann Clinical Instructor Medical Assisting

Becky Mann

Clinical Instructor

Office: Owen-Redfield Complex 241

208-282-4837

beckymann@isu.edu

Professional Work Experience

Medical Assisting 

    • Internal Medicine; Seth Lewis MD
    • Intermountain Healthcare of Utah
    • St. Luke’s Magic Valley
    • Portneuf Medical Center

Teaching

    • Substitute Teacher and Para-Educator for Cassia County School District
    • ISU Medical  Assisting Program at the College of Technology in August of 2021

Career Highlights

I started my career in healthcare as a Certified Nurse’s Aide in 2000. I spent time caring for others and listening to the life stories they felt comfortable sharing. I spent time over the years with my sister and nephew through his cancer diagnosis, as they were in and out of many physician offices. I personally found hope through the many relationships and networks provided through patient care. I was personally inspired to pursue a position in a clinic, working diligently with physicians and co-workers to provide extraordinary care to patients.

I obtained my Associates Degree in Medical Specialties, followed by obtaining my Certification for Medical Assisting in 2012. I spent most of my career between Internal Medicine and OB/Gyn. In 2017, I obtained a second Associates Degree (AA) in Elementary Education at CSI while working part time in various clinics on rotation, as well as spending some of my time as a substitute and para-educator at the elementary level.

Most recently, I experienced a variety of professions such as Cardiology, Surgery, Urology, Podiatry, Behavioral Health, Kwik Care and Family Practice. Whether it is teaching in the clinic or teaching in the classroom, it is something I have enjoyed for over 20 years. I am certified in Medical Assisting, CPR/BLS, and have obtained my Post-secondary Standard Occupational Specialist endorsement/ certificate.

I began teaching in the Medical Assisting program at ISU in 2021 and enjoy the perfect combination of the two things I thoroughly enjoy, Medical Assisting and Teaching. It is a great joy to see students connect with a career they love in healthcare. Our program prepares students for fulfilling a career as a Medical Assistant in a variety of clinics and specialties. Patient care is complex, but rewarding. With great compassion and empathy, skills are perfected for success in the Medical Profession here at ISU in the College of Technology Medical Assisting Program.

Favorite Professional Experience

While Medical Assisting can be tough at times, the physician that you work closely with can help you gain insight and education beyond your school days. My favorite experiences in my field days included the knowledge I gained and the pictures that were drawn on the patient clinic exam table paper. A great Physician explains your health in a way that the patient can really understand, and a great Medical Assistant helps the patient through the process to implement the Physician's plan for the patient. There is nothing more rewarding than working as a team for the best patient care.

A Little About Me…

When I am not busy in the classroom or office, I am most likely spending time with the family. Whether it's on land or water, my family is my favorite group of people to be around. I also enjoy crafting, concerts, off-roading, motocross (as a spectator), kayaking, amusement parks and long days on the beach.