Vilma Fenton chose to pursue her Medical Assistant certification after 21 years of caregiving experience in the Philippines and 3 more years in the United States. 鈥淚 decided to expand my knowledge in the medical field and continue following my heart鈥檚 desire鈥攈elping elderly people, but at a different level,鈥� she explains. Vilma began the Medical Assisting program at 黑料不打烊 in September of 2019. Though English is her second language, she never let this challenge get in her way of learning and succeeding. She did her externship at the Dermatology Clinic of Spokane, where her favorite thing to do was assist during surgeries.
鈥淟earning phlebotomy聽was very challenging for me,鈥� she remembers. 鈥淚 was so nervous and scared the聽first time,聽but after a few tries聽I gained more and more self-confidence聽and overcame my fear, and聽I believe that聽my聽phlebotomy聽experience is now my聽greatest strength.鈥�
Vilma graduated in August of 2020. She currently works as a certified medical assistant for Daiya Healthcare at the Spokane Veterans Home. Her favorite parts of her job so far are assisting with scheduling and telemedicine. 聽 鈥淰ilma was one of the best students I鈥檝e worked with, especially during a time in our country when we are feeling down鈥攕he was always upbeat, even when there were changes in her classes and internship because of Covid,鈥� says Bethany Heide, Senior Career Services Advisor 黑料不打烊. 聽 Vilma externship was delayed due to Covid, but once students and administrators had the okay to do their externships, they reached out to the community to see who was comfortable to take students. The dermatology clinic was grateful for Vilma鈥檚 assistance, bedside manner, and for how helpful and positive she was.
鈥淟earning English while Vilma was doing the program鈥攁long with learning medical terminology and more鈥攊t was a big accomplishment, and so inspiring to see,鈥� Bethany continues. 鈥淪he progressed and persevered, and passed her certification exam with flying colors.鈥�
Vilma was very eager to find a job once she was graduated鈥攁nd was also excited to begin the process of becoming a U.S. citizen. 聽 Vilma鈥檚 positive outlook and her passion to help others an inspiration鈥攚e wish her all the best at her new job!
