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  • Major BS in Nursing Nurse Aide Technical Certificate
  • Work history Certified Nursing Assistant at SCL Health

What do you do on a day-to-day basis? 

I spend most of my days taking classes to set myself up to get into the nursing program here at Colorado Mesa University to further my career. On the days I'm not occupied with education, I work in the hospital as a Certified Nursing Assistant in the float pool. I get to help people with so many different needs on multiple floors. I have been given the opportunity to work alongside some of the most educated nurses I have ever met, and it inspires me to be like them at the end of my education. I find it so rewarding to have the opportunity to be the person individuals turn to for comfort and care at some of their most vulnerable times.

 

My experience at CMU and Western Colorado Community College has prepared me for my career because it has taught me so much about myself, and given me tools I will remember and carry into my career for years to come. I was given the opportunity to do clinical training in both a nursing home and a hospital. It was so eye-opening to see how different each individual is and how we as caregivers can make those scary experiences better for them, while learning new things along the way.

What was your transition like from being a student to your current career position? 

My transition from being a Nurse Aide student to becoming a CNA in a hospital setting was like all new things: scary, exciting, and inspiring. I was scared to be on my own, with significant responsibilities, and scared of what I might encounter, excited when I realized that healthcare is my calling and knowing that I get to learn something new every single day. I was inspired because my journey doesn't stop here and I have the opportunity to further my education and become a more advanced healthcare professional.

What do you think set you apart from the other applicants for your current position?

​What set me apart from the other applicants was that I came in with some previous home-health experience. I was confident enough to know that I am capable of anything I put my mind to, humble enough to know that no matter how hard I work I will never run out of things to learn from other people and dedicated enough to put the work in and go above and beyond in all my endeavors. 

What advice would you give to incoming students?

Some tips I would like to offer incoming students:

  • You are stronger and SMARTER than you think you are. 
  • Don't ever compare your progress to that of people around you.
  • Don't stop pushing, you will be proud of yourself when you make it.
  • Take care of yourself, no matter how busy you get.
  • Have a positive attitude and have fun.
  • Enjoy the little things - It goes by too quickly!

Connect with Mariah on LinkedIn.

Published 11/21/22.

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