Finding Confidence and Purpose at UEI College
Leanna Barry’s journey back to school started with a conversation with her son. It turned out to be the moment that changed everything. As she worked to balance her family responsibilities and battle her own mental health struggles, her son challenged her to prioritize herself for the first time in years.
“He told me, ‘Why wait? You’ve been putting yourself on the back burner for too long. It’s your time,’” Leanna recalled.
Inspired by his words, she decided to visit UEI College in West Covina and explore the Medical Billing and Coding program (MBIC). That same day, with her son cheering her on, she enrolled.
Leanna’s path to this point wasn’t easy. After years of struggling with depression and feeling stuck in a routine that left her unfulfilled, she realized she needed a change. While working in housekeeping and caregiving, she often felt she wasn’t reaching her full potential. “There’s nothing wrong with those jobs, but I knew I was capable of so much more,” she shared. Returning to the healthcare field felt like a way to reconnect with her passions while providing her family with a better future.
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The Medical Billing and Coding program at UEI has helped Leanna rebuild her confidence and rediscover her sense of purpose. Her instructor, Mrs. Talley, played a huge role in her journey.
“Mrs. Talley is amazing. She doesn’t sugarcoat things and truly cares about her students. When I had questions, she didn’t just give me the answers—she walked me through the process until I understood it,” Leanna explained.
Beyond academics, Leanna found a supportive community at UEI. The diversity and camaraderie of her classmates reassured her that she wasn’t alone in her journey. Now, as she approaches graduation, Leanna is excited to start a new career in medical billing, focusing on mental health insurance.
“I want to help others get the most out of their insurance and ensure they’re supported. It’s about problem-solving, paying attention to detail, and making a difference for people who feel stuck like I once did.”
For Leanna, going back to school wasn’t just about finding a new career—it was about reclaiming her life. “This is my thing,” she said with pride. “I’m finally doing something for me.”
