Patricia J. Buesser (Patti) decided to add to her skill set. In her 38 years in the nursing workforce, her interest in the Nursing Informatics field grew. MCC Computer Information Technology Program graduate Buesser understood that she was limited on her technical knowledge and wanted to feel more comfortable in pursuing a career in the informatics field.
 
“I looked at graduate programs online, but could not afford the $40,000 tuition required, so I decided to start with the Associate Degree program at Mayland because it was close to home, and much more affordable, since I was not working at the time,” said Buesser.
 
Before pursuing a degree in Computer Information Technology, Buesser said she already utilized computers in her daily activities. She used computers in her role an EMS instructor using PowerPoint for presentations, and as a nurse was responsible for presentations, conducting research, and note taking.
 
“In the last two years in my nursing career at Watauga Medical Center, I worked as a Clinical Nurse Analyst assisting in electronic documentation building, which was full-time computer work,” said Buesser.
 
Buesser further developed her interest in technology as she learned more about researching, building, testing, and troubleshooting in her classes at Mayland.
 
“I want to be able to take an issue and find a solution to help others work more smoothly,” said Buesser. “It is much like putting together puzzle pieces until the big picture unfolds before you.”
 
In her new job as Clinical System Analyst at CarolinaEast Health System in New Bern, her duties include communicating with others to management to research to troubleshooting that were all covered in her educational experience at Mayland.
 
“I learned a great deal from the instructors, the staff, and the students at Mayland,” said Buesser. “Everyone is there for a purpose. I think it is a great way to find out about yourself, and your God given talents. I would hope the communities around Mayland will continue to support the college and help it grow to provide more classes and opportunities.”
Mayland’s Computer Information Technology curriculum prepares graduates for employment with organizations that use computers to process, manage, and communicate information. Course work develops a student’s ability to communicate complex technical issues related to computer hardware, software, and networks in a manner that computer users can understand. Classes cover computer operations and terminology, operating systems, database, networking, security, and technical support. Graduates should qualify for employment in entry-level positions with businesses, educational systems, and governmental agencies that rely on computer systems to manage information. Graduates should be prepared to sit for industry-recognized certification exams.
Registration for the Fall Semester is August 13. Visit www.mayland.edu or call 766-1234 for more information on how you can enroll this fall.