Succeeding in the Practicum

Kim Bender, a Florida native, attended the University of Central Florida as a scholarship athlete (women’s track & field) in the late 1990s, and studied pre-medical sciences and healthcare leading up to her bachelor of science degree in health services administration. Following this she pursued advanced studies in the field to obtain her master of science degree in health sciences. She began teaching various college healthcare courses at this point, and eventually ended up taking on externship/practicum program coordinator roles at several colleges over the next 15 years. It was working with allied health students pursuing their externships/practical training that inspired her to put together a comprehensive preparation guide to promote student success in this phase of their education. Kim’s other interests and activities are fitness and competitive running, coaching youth and high school track & field, and of greatest importance, taking care of her two awesome children.