From Struggles to Success: How UEI Helped Emily Find Her Path in Healthcare
Emily Franco graduated from UEI College Tacoma’s Medical Assistant program in June of 2024, but her journey to graduation day was anything but easy .
Growing up, Emily struggled in academic settings. She skipped class and couldn’t get interested in learning materials. Before enrolling into the MA program, she tried to get a degree to become a teacher, but dropped out because she was failing. “For a good three years, I was constantly confused,” Emily stated. “I didn’t know what to do. My family members would tell me to do this, do that, but I didn’t feel pulled in any direction.”
Then, in April 2023, she had a pivotal conversation with a coworker. Her coworker shared that she was in school for nursing and could see Emily as a good fit for the medical field as well. Emily was hesitant. Knowing her history with school and the difficulty of a job in healthcare, she still didn’t think any sort of school was for her.
A few months later — with that conversation still ringing in her head — Emily decided to visit UEI College in Tacoma with an interest in the MA program. “I didn’t know what to expect, but I kept an open mind,” Emily said. “As my tour guide explained the program to me, the classes, seeing the campus … there was just no doubt in my mind that I could do this. I didn’t know how I was going to do it, but I knew I could get it done.”
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During the COVID-19 pandemic, Emily became a caregiver for an elderly client. The experience opened her eyes to how much we depend on each other as human beings. She recognizes that this experience also drew her to a profession that allows her to help people and give them a sense of belonging to a community.
With her newfound passion and drive to succeed, she turned herself into an ideal student. Her UEI experience helped her develop important skills like prioritization, time management, and confidence to speak publicly. She had perfect attendance and even became an ambassador for the program to act as a voice and leader for fellow students.
“This experience has given me more confidence to do other things, like continue school even after I graduate to become an X-ray or ultrasound technician,” Emily said.
Her time at UEI was not without its struggles. Emily credits her faith with providing her strength and perspective during challenging times, including living on the brink of homelessness and without transportation during her externship.
“You might not understand that plan or why are you going through this,” Emily states. “But always know that God has a plan for you.” As for her immediate plans after graduation, Emily would like to pass her certification exam on the first try and find a position in urgent care or pediatric setting.
Despite her early struggles in school, Emily found her calling in the medical field and thrived at UEI. Her experience not only equipped her with essential skills but also instilled in her a newfound confidence and passion for helping others.
Emily’s story illustrates the profound impact of UEI’s programs on students’ lives. For anyone feeling lost or uncertain, let Emily’s journey be an inspiration. Consider exploring UEI’s programs and discover how support, education, and faith can help overcome life’s challenges and lead to a fulfilling career.
