Taking the Next Step in Healthcare with Confidence
Helping others has always been at the core of Kishma Williams’ career. Having started as a Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA), she found deep fulfillment in providing basic care to patients—bathing, dressing, and feeding those in need. But as time went on, she felt a growing desire to take the next step in the medical field. She wanted to challenge herself, expand her skill set, and move into a role that would allow her to make an even greater impact. That’s when she decided to enroll in the Medical Assistant program at United Education Institute (UEI) in Morrow.
“I enjoy being a CNA, but I wanted to do more,” Kishma said. “Medical assisting allows me to work both in the front office and hands-on with patients, from drawing blood to working with EKG machines. It’s something different, but I’m still able to help people, and that’s what really matters to me.”
Her decision to attend UEI was solidified when she met Ms. Trice, one of her instructors, whose support and encouragement played a huge role in her success. “She believed in me, and that gave me confidence in myself,” Kishma explained. “She allowed us to make mistakes and learn from them. If I didn’t get something right away, she would say, ‘That’s okay, we’ll try again tomorrow.’ That kind of patience and support makes all the difference.”
The hands-on training at UEI has given Kishma the experience and confidence to perform clinical tasks, especially in areas like blood draws. “I remember learning to use a butterfly needle for patients with smaller veins. It was something I practiced over and over again with my classmates. Now, I feel completely comfortable with it,” she said. “That experience was a turning point for me. I knew I was in the right place.”
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Balancing school with a full-time job hasn’t been easy, but Kishma is determined. “I’m actually on the honor roll, which is something I’m really proud of,” she said. “The biggest challenge has been staying on top of my schoolwork while working full-time, but I’ve managed to stay disciplined and meet my deadlines.”
Looking ahead, Kishma plans to secure a job as a Medical Assistant after completing her externship and later own her own business. She’s also passionate about writing poetry and dreams of publishing a book based on her life experiences. “Writing has always been a creative outlet for me, and I’d love to share my story in a way that inspires others,” she said.
When asked what advice she’d give to others considering a career change or returning to school, Kishma’s message was simple: “Just do it.”
“If it’s on your mind, go for it. You never know what you’re capable of until you try. Even if it’s difficult at first, don’t give up. Keep going until you succeed,” she said.
Through her time at UEI, Kishma has discovered that her passion for healthcare extends far beyond her role as a CNA. With her new skills, confidence, and a strong support system, she’s ready to step into the next chapter of her career—one where she can continue making a difference, one patient at a time.
