Noemi’s Path to Nursing Success
When Noemi Collier embarked on her healthcare journey, she saw Medical Assisting as a stepping stone toward her ultimate goal of becoming a nurse. While working as a medical assistant, Noemi collaborated with nurse practitioners, gaining valuable insight into the nursing profession. The mentorship provided by the nurse practitioners played a pivotal role in shaping her understanding of the intricacies of healthcare, fueling her ambition to pursue a nursing career.
BALANCING PARENTHOOD AND AMBITION
As a mother of four, Noemi knew that balancing her parental responsibilities with her career aspirations would be no easy feat. There were moments when Noemi felt content with her job as a medical assistant and hesitant about the challenges returning to school might bring.
“I had become complacent and a bit fearful because I had not been in school for such a long time,” admits Noemi. “But the nurse practitioners who were training me urged me to go back to school and continue my education.”
Despite her uncertainty, Noemi’s supportive colleagues recognized her potential as a nurse. Encouraged by their faith, Noemi found the strength to push beyond her comfort zone and chase her professional goals.
DESIRE TO BE THE BEST
Noemi’s research led her to Cape Fear Community College. During a meeting with the Health Sciences Enrollment Center , she learned about CFCC’s Associate Degree Nursing (ADN) program and became aware of the program’s renowned reputation .
“I learned about CFCC’s reputation for nursing excellence,” Noemi explained. “I knew I wanted to come to CFCC to learn from the best and become the best.”
She applied to CFCC and diligently worked toward completing the necessary prerequisites to apply for the selective admittance program.
THE NIXON LEADERS CENTER EMPOWERS SUCCESS
With renewed excitement for pursuing nursing, Noemi faced the challenge of returning to school. Fortunately, she found CFCC’s Nixon Leaders Center during the new student orientation street fair.
Immediately drawn to the welcoming, supportive environment, Noemi felt at ease and supported in navigating her college journey. In hindsight, Noemi is grateful for the unwavering support and encouragement she received from Nixon Leaders Center Director and Diversity Success Coordinator Donterio Perkins.
The Nixon Leaders Center supports the educational and professional aspirations of underrepresented populations of students enrolled at CFCC. Through mentorship and networking, the center provides students with opportunities for growth and to improve their academic outcomes.
“I think it’s important for prospective students and current students to see somebody who is the same as themselves,” shared Noemi. “Whether it’s the same age range, the same race, or the same situation, it’s helpful to see that somebody else is doing it and they are succeeding.”
LEGACY OF COMMUNITY CARE
After months of hard work and dedication, Noemi received the exciting news of her acceptance into the ADN program. She eagerly anticipates beginning her nursing journey, ready to embark on a new chapter in her healthcare career.
“My end goal is to become a nurse practitioner so I can take care of the community like my grandfather,” Noemi shared. “My grandfather was one of the first black marines stationed in Montford Point. He was a councilman in Jacksonville, NC during most of my childhood and was very active in our community. He inspired me to carry on his legacy.”
The Nixon Leaders Center welcomes all CFCC students. Since its origins in 2010, the Center has expanded its outreach for minority males to include women and Latino outreach. Learn more at Nixon Leaders Center .
