Our Learners say it best!
Kidist’s Success Story
Kidist Tessema, a mother, immigrant, and future nurse has just passed the Nursing Assistant Certification (NAC) Exam after completing the Introduction to Healthcare Employment & Apprenticeship Program (IHAP) course in June and the Nursing Assistant-Certified training program in August.
“I know I want to be a nurse. In this country, they give you really good opportunities. I want to thank everybody in this program. They helped us study, helped with gas cards, and they even helped me with my mortgage. It was fantastic.”
Kidist, originally from Ethiopia, came to the United States from Italy almost ten years ago. She had previously completed a dental assistant program. After coming to the United States, she worked for seven years at an agency serving the autistic community. A few years ago, she studied phlebotomy and knew she wanted to work in a hospital setting, but needed to receive her nursing assistant certification to take the next step in her career.
When she was looking for a CNA program, she learned about the Training Fund’s IHAP course. She delayed signing up to prioritize her family as she was having a baby, but then jumped right into the class in May.
“I started with IHAP, and they helped me learn to write a resume and how to do a lot of things. They are like family now and everyone tries to help. When I call, they answer. They really are there for us and I want to thank them.”
Taking the IHAP course and going on to the Nursing Assistant Training program with a newborn and a seven-year-old was incredibly challenging for her.
“Because I couldn’t work, it was a really hard time. In the middle of class I thought, ‘I have to go back to work. I can’t pay my bills.’ I was stressed. It was very hard for me not going to work. I also had to leave my baby and needed a babysitter. When we started the skills lab, I was going to give up. But Yusuf, our IHAP Navigator, encouraged me and helped me a lot. He told me not to worry and that the program would support me.”
Financial assistance and a community of support made it possible for Kidist to continue pursuing her goal. She is determined to keep learning and finds purpose in helping people. Kidist also encourages others looking for a good job to think about a career in healthcare.
“I love this job. I was crying seeing people suffering, but it is very nice to see I can do something to help them and that is my goal, so it makes me very happy. This position is very good for my future. Helping people and just being there for them to do small things makes a difference. I love this job.”
Kidist completed her clinical training at Swedish Medical Center First Hill Campus. While she was in her training, she demonstrated vigilance, bravery, and care for her patients. She was quick to act when she recognized a woman from a BOLO alert and notified security immediately. Hospital security recognized her courage and commitment to patient safety by presenting her with an award.
“Thank you, Kidist, for Speaking Up for Safety and protecting our most vulnerable patients!”
This is just the beginning for Kidist as she continues in her healthcare journey and pursuit of becoming a nurse.
“You helped me and now I think I can do it and even go on to study more. It might take longer, but I can do it. Thank you!”