The Surgical First Assistant program made me a valuable asset to surgeons and surgical staff. I was given the chance to flourish in the operating room under excellent staff, while being taught firsthand by world-renowned surgeons. My experiences in the classroom and OR allowed me to hone my skills to provide the best anticipation and surgical skills needed to support the surgeon. Mayo Clinic staff encouraged "the needs of the patient come first", which is something I strive to keep every day.

Layne Haroldson, C.S.A., CSFA
2023 graduate who now works as a certified surgical assistant at Mayo Clinic

Being a part of the surgical assistant program allowed me to gain anatomical and surgical skills. I was able to interact with different members of the surgical team and see how valuable everyone’s role is in the operating room. Also, the program provided students the opportunity to visit Mayo Clinic Health System and experience how the role of the surgical assistant functions in those smaller hospital settings.

Cristhoper Fernandez De Castro, C.S.A.
2022 graduate who now works as a certified surgical assistant at Mayo Clinic

The Surgical First Assistant Program at Mayo Clinic goes above and beyond to prepare you with the knowledge and skills you need to excel as a surgical first assist. I really enjoyed the hands-on clinical time in the operating room learning from some of the greatest minds in the surgical field. Mayo Clinic is invested in their constant desire to learn and understand for the sake of healing and helping others, which is why I chose this career!

Emily VanSickle, C.S.A., CSFA
2021 graduate who now works as a certified surgical assistant at Mayo Clinic