Eagle EMS Member Revives Local Man After Heart Attack

"I think that absolutely everyone should be certified in CPR," Cochran-Caggiano said. "I think it should be part of a liberal arts education. The point of a liberal arts education is to prepare you to be the best person you can be in life. It's just a two-hour class for CPR, it's very cheap, and it's something that could absolutely affect someone forever. There's no saying that [the patient] is going to be okay, but there's also a chance that he leaves in two days and lives another 20 years. It can't be overstated how much people should be aware of this."

Cochran-Caggiano's actions have also caught the eye of several Boston College administrators.

"We join all members of the Boston College community in applauding sophomore Nick Cochran-Caggiano for his quick actions in helping to save the life of a Newton resident this week," said University Spokesman Jack Dunn in an e-mail. "It was positive news in the midst of what has been a most difficult time for us all, and another affirmation of the wonderful work of the Eagle EMS program."

Cochran-Caggiano pointed out that his actions were in line with a philosophy he's held since volunteering during high school. "If you're always ready to help someone, you'll be ready when it's necessary," he said.