In July of 2022, 16 year old Ellah Townsley entered the Iowa Hero Academy to learn and live like a first responder on the job. Iowa Hero academy is a six day overnight camp designed to teach young women ages 16-18 how to reach their true potential by gaining the skills and knowledge to help others in need.

The process to be admitted into the academy included writing a 1000 word essay before you are called in for an in-person interview. The interview consisted of answering questions by yourself to the five head policeman and firefighters about your biggest trial in life. Then after extensive review and your performance, applicants recieved an email if you were accepted or not.

The academy offers many benefits to these individuals, especially to help them pursue a career in the field. “It taught me things that I didn’t think I needed to know,” Townsley said. “I can now help people in need, not just physically but mentally as well.”

However, this camp isn’t always sunshine and rainbows. The women in training must endure how to deal with difficult conditions, to say the least.

“I’m nervous to see people hurting in unfortunate, tragic situations,” Townsley said.

Townsley advises young women considering participating in the academy to not be intimidated of a field not often female-popular, and that shouldn’t affect your decision to join.

“Don’t be scared of the male dominant field. Push through and work hard for it.”