Erica Courson

Experienced educator and clinical professional with a strong academic background in biology, microbiology, and health sciences. Skilled in teaching complex biological and medical science concepts to diverse learners across multiple educational levels. Passionate about fostering critical thinking, scientific inquiry, and lifelong learning while providing real-world clinical perspective.

8th Grade Science / Honors Physical Science Teacher at Hampton Middle School (2024-09 – 2026-05)

• Taught 8th grade science, driving double-digit growth on state Milestones assessments through data-informed instruction and engaging, standards-based lessons
• Achieved 100% proficiency among honors students on state assessments while fostering critical thinking, scientific inquiry, and academic excellence in a collaborative classroom environment

Guest Lecturer at Morehouse School of Medicine & Middle Georgia State University (2021-09 – Present)

Served as a guest lecturer for medical school courses in cardiology and microbiology, delivering instruction on foundational and clinical concepts. Assisted with hands-on learning in cadaver laboratories and a variety of science labs, providing guidance in anatomy, laboratory techniques, and practical applications while supporting student learning in both classroom and laboratory settings.

Physician Assistant / Clinical Office Staff Manager at NT Cardiovascular Center (2022-09 – Present)

Experienced Clinical and Office Staff Manager with a strong background overseeing daily operations in a high-volume medical practice. Skilled in staff leadership, scheduling, workflow coordination, patient service, and ensuring efficient clinical and administrative operations while maintaining compliance and delivering high-quality patient care. I initiate office visits and complete evidence-based practice.

I also complete hospital rounds and aid procedures (Heart Catheterization, cardioversions, TEE, etc.). I review reports, nuclear and sonographic images/studies.

Graduate Research Assistantship at Fort Valley State University (2018-01 – 2019-05)

I worked on research that involves genetic profiling from samples obtained from USDA, ARS, Plant Genetic Resources Conservation Unit. I used molecular biology techniques of two species of Desmodium and their accessions: Desmodium Incanum and Desmodium tortuosum. I studied both the genotypic and phenotypic aspects of each accession while comparing and contrasting the two species.

I am investigated the tannin analysis to see how different accession can aid in parasite load (medicinal affects) not only in animals but possibly in humans.

LEAD Medical Assistant and Clinical Staff Manager at Coliseum Heart, Lung & Vascular / Coliseum Surgical Specialist (2015-10 – 2017-09)

I was exposed to a variety of different cases in this dual provider office. I was fortunate to learn so much working with Dr. Arnold & Dr.

Norman

Hetzler. Dr. Arnold being a general surgeon & Dr. Hetzler a cardiothoracic and vascular surgeon. Both of whom have decades of experience in patient care.

I was responsible for obtaining and reviewing all: documents, lab results, diagnostic images, and reviewing patient history with the providers. I worked alongside the PA and received one on one education and practice in wound care, medications, surgeries, and hospital care among other things.

I would prep patients to be seen and this included: taking vitals, reconciling medication, probing symptoms, observing the incision site, forming a plan of action to present to the PA, and discussing patient options.

LEAD MA / Clinical Manager at NT Cardiovascular Center (2012-05 – 2015-10)

Experienced Clinical and Office Manager with extensive experience overseeing daily operations in a high-volume medical practice. Skilled in managing clinical procedures, supervising staff, coordinating patient care, and ensuring efficient workflow. Proficient in front desk operations, including patient check-in and check-out, appointment scheduling, insurance verification and pre-authorizations, billing and coding, claims management, and revenue cycle oversight.

Dedicated to delivering exceptional patient service while maintaining compliance, accuracy, and operational efficiency.

Stress Test Lab Manager at NT Cardiovascular Center (2012-05 – 2015-10)

I was responsible for administering the treadmill, Bruce, Lexiscan, and Dobutamine stress test. I would explain the importance of the tests, explain potential side effects, and answer any questions about the nuclear and chemical dose that would be given.

Other

Responsibilities included being skilled in a medical staff setting and assisting in: check-in, check-out, test scheduling, and the working up of a patient. Work-up responsibilities included: taking blood pressure, weight, EKG, Aorta-Scans, and discussing the current patient systems/complaints.

Certified EKG Technician at NT Cardiovascular Center and Coliseum Heart, Lung & Vascular (2012-05 – Present)

I am responsible for reading the EKGs throughout the stress test as well as taking manual blood pressures every minute throughout the test. I am there as the "doctors" eyes assuring that the test goes as intended. Other responsibilities included being skilled in a medical staff setting assisting in: check-in, check-out, test scheduling, and working up of a patient. I have been PRN since Oct 2015. I mostly go in when school breaks allow.

Medical Billing Clerk at Premiere Medical Billing (2010-10 – 2012-05)

I assisted with posting all charges as well submitting medical claims. I managed the filing and calling status for secondary claim filing for nine different doctor office locations. This was very helpful in understanding all aspects of a medical practice.

Tutor at Self-employed (2008-01 – 2019-12)

I am capable of tutoring all age groups in all subjects. I have a preference for tutoring in mathematics and the sciences including but not limited to: Elementary Math- Calculus 2, Biology, Physical Science, Zoology, Human Anatomy, General Chemistry, History, etc.

Master of Physician Assistant Studies in Physician Assistant Studies – Morehouse School of Medicine (2019-06 – 2021-08)

Master of Science in Animal Science and Biotechnology – Fort Valley State University (2018-01 – 2019-05)

Bachelor of Science in Biology – Middle Georgia State University (2015-05)

Associate of Science in Chemistry – Middle Georgia State University (2015-05)

Minor in Mathematics and Physics – Middle Georgia State University (2015-05)

High School Diploma – Windsor Academy (2009-05)