“I had a very wonderful instructor, Larry, while at Avanza Training,” said Natasha. “He is one of the main reasons I am looking to enroll myself in Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN) classes continue working in healthcare.”
Natasha graduated from Avanza Training earlier this year with her Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA) certificate after working in healthcare for over 13 years. Natasha’s experience comes from her time spent in senior living and mental health facilities so going back into the classroom at 39-years-old to obtain a certificate was just the icing on the cake.
“I love working in healthcare and now being able to care for patients in this capacity – it’s just so fulfilling,” said Natasha. “If I had to share one piece of advice for someone wanting to become a CNA, it’s to take your time no matter where you are in life and to never forget that your patients are people too.”
Natasha was able to attend Avanza Training through an impactful organization called Dreambound. They offer a tuition-free program that individuals seeking their CNA can apply for and receive placement after graduation. Through this program, Natasha was able to sign up for Avanza Training’s two weeks accelerated class, with an online hybrid component.
Currently, Natasha is working on ShiftKey as a CNA, picking up open shifts at facilities and hospitals nearby. Soon, she will begin working at a nearby Brookdale Senior Living location as one of Dreambound’s placement requirements.
Question: what are three things you love about working in healthcare?
“First and foremost, the people,” said Natasha. “I love working with people, and everyone in healthcare shares a common goal to better the lives of our patients. Secondly, is the team-like environment. Especially in home care, you have an entire care team surrounding you to help create patient care plans and to be a sounding board. Lastly, what I love about working in healthcare is the constant determination I feel everyday to be present. If I’m not present, I could risk someone’s health and safety. I take my job very seriously and having such responsibility helps me get up in the morning and be the best I can be.”
A special thank you to Natasha for sharing her journey with us and trusting us at Avanza Training to give her the proper training and skillset to achieve her healthcare dreams. We can’t wait to see how far you go!
