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Success Stories

Dr. 40509

National medical assisting graduates Shae Cheatham (Lexington Campus) and Angela Grant (Richmond Campus) work together at Bluegrass Dermatology, a large and successful skin surgery center in Lexington. Both ladies are thrilled to be working at a very busy surgery center. “My career is very exciting and fulfilling,” says Angela (right). “I work with wonderful people and I get the opportunity to help others.”

In addition to life-saving treatment for skin cancer and other dermatological conditions, cosmetic procedures comprise an interesting part of the practice as well. Describing herself as a “utility player,” Angela assists the doctors with a variety of treatments and surgeries. “I also get to assist with cosmetic procedures, which I love,” Angela adds. “We do laser treatments, liposuction, botox…a lot of different things I’ve gotten to learn since I’ve been here.”

“During my time at National, I had people that believed in me, so I learned to believe in myself,” says Angela. Having to endure surgery herself while a student, combined with a major medical crisis for her son, severely tested the single mother’s dedication to staying in school. “I was encouraged to stay in school and the faculty and staff helped me achieve my goals.”

Shae was working as a home health nurse when a National College billboard caught her eye and she enrolled in the medical assisting program in the fall of 2004. National’s convenient schedules allowed her to attend school full time while continuing to work a full-time job, and she graduated in August of 2006. How does she feel about her experience? “I’d recommend National to anyone,” she says.

When Angela graduated, she had a problem most people would envy. Four job interviews in one week – a daunting challenge! “I did ‘mock interviews’ with [Career Center Director] Mikki [Lowery] – she’s great at her job, by the way – and I was very prepared and felt very confident,” says Angela. “Within a day or two of each interview, I got offers, and I had to make a decision within three days on the job that I wanted!” Angela has no doubts that she chose the right job, and the right college. “I was a single mother who wanted to become someone my son could be proud of…I am now that person,” she says. “This has always been my dream and National College has made it possible.”