My Story

Life has a way of shaping us through its trials, and for me, that journey began with heartbreak. My mother, the person I was closest to and looked up to most, passed away when I was just 12 years old. She was tragically killed in a head-on collision with a drunk driver. Losing her left a hole in my heart, and my world shifted in ways I wasn’t prepared for. She was a stay-at-home mom, my rock, and my biggest supporter. From a young age, she instilled in me the importance of education and working hard for a brighter future. After her death, those lessons became my guiding light.

With my father often away working in the industrial cleaning industry to provide for me and my older brother, I learned independence quickly. My brother became my caretaker, ensuring we had food on the table and the house was in order. He showed me the importance of resilience and responsibility, and for much of my adolescence, I leaned on him as we navigated life without our mom.

Determined to honor my mother’s memory and her belief in education, I threw myself into my studies. When I started college, I needed to find a way to support myself financially. My aunt, who worked in medical billing and coding for a health system, helped me get a part-time job as a medical receptionist. It wasn’t glamorous work, but it was a stepping stone, and being in a hospital environment opened my eyes to a world I had never considered before.

Sitting at the reception desk, I watched patients come and go, nurses rushing by, and doctors moving with purpose. The energy of the hospital, especially the emergency department, fascinated me. I heard stories from staff about what went on behind those doors, and I couldn’t help but feel drawn to it. With encouragement from those around me, I applied for a position as an ER technician and was thrilled to be accepted.

Working in the emergency department was a turning point for me. I loved the fast-paced, unpredictable environment and the hands-on nature of the work. The team I worked with became like family, mentoring me and helping me grow. It was during this time that I discovered my passion for patient care. I wanted to do more—to take what I was learning and build on it. That led me to become a medical assistant.

As a float pool medical assistant, I had the opportunity to work in general surgery and neurology. These experiences were invaluable, allowing me to learn from skilled providers and see a variety of cases. It was in general surgery that I realized my love for the operating room and my interest in surgery. However, I knew I didn’t want to focus on routine cases. My background in emergency medicine and my personal connection to trauma inspired me to set my sights on becoming a trauma surgeon.

The loss of my mother continues to drive me every day. I want to help people in their darkest moments—the moments when they feel hopeless, broken, or at their worst. I want to be there to make a difference, to save lives, and to bring hope.

Outside of my career and education, I value the time I spend with my brother, who remains a pillar of strength in my life. We enjoy playing pickleball together, and when I’m not studying or working, I love reading and gaming as a way to unwind.

While I’m still early in my career and education, I bring a unique perspective shaped by both personal experiences and professional growth. Joining The Certified MA Guide allows me to share my story, my knowledge, and my passion for patient care with others. I hope to inspire other medical assistants to dream big, work hard, and never lose sight of what drives them.

Every step I’ve taken has been with a purpose: to honor my mother, to build a better future, and to make a difference in the lives of others. I know the road ahead is long, but I’m ready for it—and I’m grateful for the lessons I’ve learned along the way.