Finding Confidence Through Care: Rosy’s Journey into Healthcare
Posted by damarcus.redeau
Rosy came to Portland Community College’s Nursing Assistant IET program ready for a challenge and found much more than she expected. With a dream she’s held since she was young, Rosy knew she wanted to work in healthcare to help others and build a better future. The IET program offered her a path to do both while also strengthening her English.
From the start, the program pushed Rosy outside her comfort zone. Learning medical vocabulary in a new language, practicing hands-on CNA skills, and preparing for the state exam required focus and determination. “It was challenging,” she shared, “but very helpful. I tried my best, and I learned a lot.” Through her hard work, she developed essential skills in communication, patient care, and how to support residents with respect and kindness.
One of Rosy’s favorite parts of the program was practicing CNA skills. It helped her feel more connected to the work and gave her confidence in how to communicate directly with patients. That confidence didn’t come easily. One of her biggest challenges was learning medical English and speaking up, but with support from her instructors and classmates, she kept improving.
Rosy describes her instructors as patient and deeply supportive, creating an environment where she could truly grow. “They tried to speak as slowly as possible and helped us so much,” she said. “It was the best experience of my life to practice English and skills to help people.” She also found steady encouragement from her Career Pathways & STEP coach, Laura, who checked in often, asked thoughtful questions, and made sure students felt supported every step of the way. “Because of her, we feel safe in the program,” Rosy shared.
Her hard work paid off in a big way. Rosy passed her CNA skills test with a perfect score and successfully passed the state exam. For someone who had only been studying English for a year when she started, it was a moment of pride and possibility. “It helped me believe in my future,” she said.
Now, Rosy is looking ahead. She plans to continue taking English classes, prepare her resume with Laura’s help, and begin working as a CNA. She’s excited to keep growing and building her career in healthcare.
For anyone considering the IET program, Rosy offers simple but powerful advice: “Don’t give up. The program can be difficult, especially if English is not your first language. Ask questions and believe in yourself. You can succeed.”