Janella Bryant
I had already been a CNA for 15 years when I decided to return to school for Medical Assisting.
Being a CNA is a very humble profession that I enjoyed, but I wanted to do something different. After going through this program, I can confidently say that I’m very happy with the degree I have chosen.
I chose Herzing University because of the flexibility their online programs offered. I was able to work, take care of my family, and attend school at the same time. The coursework was easy to keep up with even though it was fast-paced. Herzing even had the degree/diploma I needed to continue in my desired field! The programs were fast-paced to help me complete the program quickly, and I was able to keep up with submission assignments each week with no problems.
The biggest challenge for me was trying to stop myself from getting overwhelmed. At times, I felt like I wouldn't be able to complete an assignment and that simply too much was going on. To address this, I had to start practicing time management and make sure that all my assignments were complete.
I also had to work during my externship and my daughter unexpectedly became sick during the first three weeks of it. Honestly, I didn't think I would be able to complete it, but I prayed, persevered and pushed through it to reach the finish line. Ultimately, I made it! Persevering through the hard times is worth it, and others were there to support me along the way.
George Jenkins was helpful as he made sure I received my schedule and understood it completely. I appreciated Olethia Williams for her help with getting me started and helping me understand the financial cost while encouraging me not to give up. All my teachers gave me great feedback that helped me develop and was much appreciated.
No doubt the coolest thing I learned was how to give immunizations and CLIA-Waived testing at my externship site. Being able to put into practice what I would need for my future career helped me to prepare for on-the-job employment.
What surprised me about this program was that I completed the whole thing in eight months! I’m able to look back now and can say that it didn't take as long to complete as it felt. I'm glad that I was able to keep up and finish my courses without giving up!
What's next for me is to start working as a medical assistant. I already have been hired in contingency by my current employer and a potential job opportunity has opened from the externship site that wants to hire me.
My advice to future students is this: don't give up! Even when you feel at your lowest and you don't feel like you can do it, think about what's in store for the future. Think about what you are going to school for and why you decided to go back. That will be the motivation to keep you going when times get tough. You can do it!
