Bryelle Rummings Balances Healthcare Studies and Leadership at Aims

A graduate of University High School, she entered her first year of high school with excitement and plans for the future. Then COVID-19 hit, turning her school experience into a mix of remote learning and hybrid classes. With that uncertainty, Bryelle’s determination never wavered.

Bryelle was inspired to attend Aims because of her mother’s positive experience on campus. “One of the reasons I came to Aims was because my mom is an alum,” Bryelle says. “She came to Aims, did the Aims2UNC program, and suggested that I come here... not only for the tuition rates but the small class sizes. You get to make a lot more friends at a smaller college, and it’s a better environment.”

Her path at Aims Community College began with concurrent enrollment while still in high school. It grew into a transformative experience filled with leadership, hands-on healthcare training, and a vision for the future.

At Aims, she excelled in academics. Beyond the classroom, Bryelle has become a campus leader. Most notably in student government, but also as an active member of other on-campus organizations. Bryelle’s story reflects the heart of Aims: opportunity, connection, and transformation.

Early Steps Toward Medicine

Bryelle is drawn to the medical field because of her passion for helping others. She discovered her passion for medicine through the Med Prep program, a concurrent enrollment opportunity with Aims. Med Prep students receive six certificates: Introduction to Allied Health, Medical Preparation, Nurse Aide (CNA), Healthcare Readiness and Professionalism, American Heart Association Basic Life Support and American Heart Association First Aid. 

Though initially too young to join, her persistence paid off when she was accepted into the program as a high school senior and earned a paid internship at UCHealth Greeley Hospital. “That summer in the hospital solidified my desire to help others,” she shares.

Bryelle excelled in Med Prep while taking college-level courses like chemistry, algebra, and trigonometry at Aims. These classes prepared her for future academic success. “I was already familiar with the campus and the community,” she says. “That made moving from high school to full-time college much easier.”

Bryelle’s experiences at Aims and healthcare jobs shaped her career goals. She works as a CNA and therapy technician at Northern Colorado Rehabilitation Hospital, where she helps patients regain their independence. “It’s inspiring to see patients improve and eventually go home,” she says. 

“One of the most rewarding parts of my job is seeing patients leave the hospital. We do something called the standing ovation, where the staff claps as they go home. It’s a reminder of why we do what we do.”

Her nurse aide work has also broadened her understanding of medicine. Shadowing professionals across various hospital departments — from the ICU to nuclear medicine — has helped Bryelle refine her aspirations. She supports therapists delivering care, including physical, occupational, and speech therapies. “Initially, I wasn’t sure where I fit in medicine. Now, I know I want to become a surgeon,” she explains. “I want to be the person diagnosing and treating patients, helping them get back to their lives.”

While working as a CNA, Bryelle has completed her Associate of Science, Liberal Arts degree with a designation in Biology at Aims. She is waiting until next spring to participate in the commencement ceremony because she is working on another credential. In the summer of 2025, she is going for the Emergency Medical Technician Certificate to get more training in medical trauma and special circumstance emergencies.

As guided by the Aims2UNC program, she will transfer to the University of Northern Colorado. There, she will complete her bachelor’s degree in biological sciences. Bryelle plans to study for the Medical College Admission Test (MCAT) and apply to medical school, with dreams of specializing in surgery — possibly in pediatrics or emergency medicine.

A Leader in Action

Bryelle’s time at Aims is not just marked by her excellence in allied health and practical professional experience. She is very active in the campus community. At the start of her journey, Bryelle attended Fall In, a resource fair and celebration highlighting campus programs and organizations. This event sparked her desire to get involved. 

She applied to the Student Government Association (SGA) and started as Vice President of Public Relations, where she built the Student Life Instagram account from the ground up. Bryelle also developed ways to amplify student events and resources to larger audiences in that position.

Leadership came naturally to Bryelle. The next school year, she became president of the Student Government Association. In this role, she oversees meetings, works with budgets, and represents the student body in monthly reports to the Board of Trustees. “Being president has pushed me out of my comfort zone,” she reflects. “I’ve learned to lead a team while ensuring everyone’s voice is heard.”

Bryelle’s leadership extends beyond student government. This includes the Med Prep Advisory Board, which provided insight to enhance the Med Prep program, including advocating for improved simulation equipment. “In Med Prep, we had to use a cardboard cutout of a car for our simulation finals. I advocated for a real car crash simulator, and now students have a realistic two-passenger car to train with. I’m glad I was a part of that.”

She serves on multiple collegewide committees, including the College Council and the Aims Foundation Board. Her involvement in these groups gives her a unique perspective on how a community college operates. “Every meeting focuses on students. That’s what makes Aims so special—they truly prioritize us.” Bryelle has observed how far this phenomenon reaches on campus and beyond. 

“Aims has one of the biggest support systems I’ve ever seen. We have resources everywhere—on billboards, social media, and even in the bathroom stalls!”

Preparing for the Future

As Bryelle prepares to take the next step toward her dream of becoming a surgeon, she leaves a legacy of determination, compassion, and leadership at Aims. 

She attributes part of her success to the college's affordability and resources. Scholarships, grants, and on-campus employment have allowed her to focus on her studies without the stress of financial burdens. “Aims has been a blessing,” she says. “I’ve been able to attend college debt-free, which is something I’m incredibly grateful for.”

Bryelle’s message is clear for students considering Aims: “Do it. Apply, get involved, and take advantage of every opportunity.” She encourages students to seek leadership roles, even if they initially feel unsure. “You don’t know what you’re capable of until you try,” she says. “The support and resources at Aims will help you succeed.”

Reflecting on her journey, Bryelle is proud of her connections and the person she’s become. 

"Aims has given me more than an education; it’s given me confidence, leadership skills, and a sense of community. It’s been an incredible experience. I’m excited for what’s next.”