Alumni mentors guide U of I students in hands-on training at Gritman Medical Center

Kristi Holden and Allyssa Loesch describe their work at Gritman Medical Center’s cardiac rehabilitation clinic as “changing lives, one heart at a time.”

Their attitude reflects not only the care they provide to patients but also their role in mentoring University of Idaho students in exercise science through practicums and internships.

Holden and Loesch, both exercise physiologists, focus on helping patients get back to what they love.

“They come in knowing they need some help,” Holden said. “Working with us in cardiac rehab gives them a second chance, an opportunity to get back to the things they love, and a boost to their confidence.”

Both U of I alumnae, Holden ’05 earned her master’s degree in exercise science, and Loesch ’13 graduated with a bachelor’s degree in exercise science and health. After completing her internship with Holden, Loesch was hired full-time at Gritman. Holden and Loesch say their experiences at University of Idaho, and the connections they made as Vandals inspired them to give back by mentoring current students.

A College of Education, Health and Human Sciences undergraduate student athlete, Leah Holmgren, completed her internship under the direction of Holden and Loesch.

“I was unsure if working in a clinic would be something I truly wanted. After meeting all the patients in the Cardiac Rehab program I am excited to continue toward a clinic based career,” said Holmgren, who is from Ellensburg, Washington. “Helping others is something I am excited about. Especially after watching Kristi and Allyssa set such great examples. The patient’s success comes from the environment that they create together.”

EHHS Instructor Emma Grindley, who coordinates the practicum and internship program, said these hands-on experiences are invaluable for students.

“Practicum and internships allow students to sample different careers, make connections between the classroom and the real world, and gain experience working directly with real clients and patients,” she said. “All of this helps students grow in knowledge, skills, professionalism, confidence and clarity in career direction.”

Holden said the students who come to cardiac rehab gain valuable, real-world experience from day one.

“Working at cardiac rehab is a great experience. On day one, students interact with patients,” she said. “Throughout their time with us, they learn the ins and outs of supervised exercise, education and the career. They also get to connect with patients and learn from them, too.”

Hands-on experience is a cornerstone of all EHHS programs, woven into every degree’s coursework to ensure students gain real-world skills. Collaborations with industry leaders like Gritman Medical Center provide valuable opportunities for practical learning and professional growth.

“The students are treated like employees. It’s like an ongoing interview. It gives them the skills to get a job — not just in cardiac rehabilitation but in other areas as well,” Loesch said. “The skills are transferable.”

Mentorship plays a key role in helping students grow during their placements.

“I appreciate that Kristi and Allyssa gave me the room to learn without being coddled. This is a great skill to practice for going into the medical field. I also am glad to have gained such valuable hands-on patient experience,” said Holmgren.

Holden and Loesch’s partnership has benefited students, staff and patients for 15 years.