Education

Associate of Applied Sciences in Medical Assisting, 09/2019

Certifications

Basic Life Support (BLS) – American Heart Association

Certified Medical Assistant – American Association of Medical Assistants

My Story

Not everyone knows from the start what they want to do in life, but for me, a seed was planted early. Growing up as the middle child of three siblings in a larger town, I watched my mother, a CNA in a nursing home, dedicate herself to caring for others. She would come home after long shifts and talk about her day—stories of patients, their struggles, and the small victories she was able to share with them. It fascinated me. I didn’t necessarily want to follow directly in her footsteps, but her stories inspired me to imagine what it would be like to provide care in a different setting.

By the time I reached high school, I knew I wanted to be involved in healthcare, but I was drawn to the outpatient clinic side of things. I had the opportunity to shadow healthcare workers and observe nurses and medical assistants in action. The fast pace, variety, and one-on-one patient care captivated me. That’s when I first learned what a medical assistant was, and I knew it was a career I wanted to pursue.

After high school, I earned my Associate of Applied Science degree in Medical Assisting and became a Certified Medical Assistant (CMA) through the American Association of Medical Assistants. I loved the versatility of the role—how medical assistants can perform so many of the same tasks as nurses while working closely with providers to deliver patient-centered care. I was also drawn to the fact that, as a medical assistant, I could avoid some of the more physically and emotionally demanding aspects of nursing home care that my mother often faced.

I began my career in primary care pediatrics, where I spent two years honing my skills. It was during this time that I developed a passion for procedures, such as incision and drainage, mole and cyst removals, and other hands-on treatments. These small interventions not only fascinated me but also allowed me to see the immediate impact I could have on my patients. When a position opened in dermatology, I leaped at the opportunity, knowing it would allow me to combine my love of patient care with my growing interest in procedural work.

Today, as a dermatology medical assistant, I find immense joy in helping patients regain confidence in their appearance. Whether it’s through removing an unsightly mole, treating acne, or assisting with aesthetic procedures, I love being part of a team that helps people feel better about themselves. Each day brings new challenges and opportunities to learn, which keeps me motivated and excited about my work.

While I’m proud of how far I’ve come, I know this is only the beginning of my journey. I’m passionate about expanding my knowledge and skills to better serve my patients. I aspire to become a physician assistant with a focus in dermatology, where I can continue to make a difference in the lives of others on a deeper level.

For me, patient care isn’t just about addressing physical concerns—it’s about making patients feel seen, heard, and valued. Whether it’s taking the time to explain a procedure, answering questions, or simply listening to their concerns, I strive to create an environment where my patients feel cared for. That trust is the foundation of what I do, and it’s what drives me to keep growing both personally and professionally.