FOX 21 News, KQDS-DT

In the latest College Connection, FOX 21's Dan Hanger takes you to Duluth Business University where a certain medical program is almost guaranteed to get you a job after graduation.

"I'm one of those displaced workers," said Adele Owens, 48, in need of a job like millions of Americans.

"I needed to make a change for myself and for my family," Owens said.

So instead of sitting at home, she turned to DBU and its Medical Assistant Program.

"Being the first person that a person sees when they aren't feeling good – to have that important roll with the doctor -- to being part of a team," Owens explained.

Rebecca Norton, 35, never really liked the college life in years past.

"I've taken classes at other colleges and I wasn't feeling it and I ended up dropping out," Norton said.

But she says the DBU changed her by offering smaller class sizes and a medical assistant program that's building confidence in her future career.

"It makes it really easy to want to come every day because everybody is so nice to you hear and willing to help out," Norton said.

Mary Bovee, the head of the Medical Asst. Dept. said students are getting hands–on experience, learning how to take vitals, blood samples, prepare patients for exams, and assist in minor surgical procedures.

"They perform at a very high level, and they're getting jobs right on their internships," Bovee said.

Bovee said the end result for a medical assistant student is almost always a job, especially locally in the Twin Ports.

"The need is high because those who are in the field who are baby boomers will be leaving the workforce, and of course we know that these baby boomers will need to be cared for," Bovee said.

It's a niche in the medical field that's in high demand, and it's being offered in one of the most welcoming environments a university can offer.

"I have never met such a close nit, more friendly group of people ever. They are really willing to go the extra mile for you," Owens explained.