Before enrolling at East Ohio, medical assisting student, Jessica Allen worked in the home healthcare industry for 8 years. She had previously started a degree program in business and accounting and realized it was not for her. Her healthcare experience showed her that the medical field was her calling, but she always dreamed of bigger and better things beyond home healthcare. Through word-of-mouth recommendations from many of her friends and family members, Jessica was excited to pursue her calling in East Ohio’s Medical Assisting program. She was inspired by everyone else’s positive stories and referrals, as well as East Ohio’s small class sizes and genuinely caring faculty and staff.
Jessica immediately knew Medical Assisting was exactly the program she belonged in! Her experience in healthcare was interwoven with her values and passion to pursue her career; but, her experience helping her sick mother is what “sealed the deal” for her. Jessica had spent so much time ensuring her mother was well cared for and taken to all of her appointments and chemotherapy treatments. Being able to help someone have the best quality of life and providing reassurance, comfort, and companionship fueled her heart and gave her life purpose.
Like her family and friends, Jessica quickly realized how different and special East Ohio was. She states that “my favorite part of attending East Ohio would definitely be that everyone treats you like you matter. From the instructors to the front office staff, everyone is so welcoming and warm-hearted that they make you feel like you’re family from the very beginning.” When asked who her favorite or most impactful instructors have been, Jessica had a difficult time choosing. “I have many favorite instructors but if I had to choose just one, I would have to say that person is Mrs. Scott. She takes her role at East Ohio very seriously, but she also connects with her students on a personal level. While attending East Ohio, I lost my brother very unexpectedly and if it weren’t for her I honestly don’t think I would have finished the program. She pushed me through this very dark time in my life and NEVER gave up on me! She believed in me even when I didn’t believe in myself, and for that, I am forever grateful for her.” Additionally, she expressed gratitude for Mrs. Martin and Career Services stating that without her and all the other instructors “I would not be where I am at right now. I wouldn’t have the confidence every time I got the chance to shine at work… You are amazing at what you do and the way you care about people.”
In her spare time, Jessica loves to coupon and is also the proud “momma” of her mini pig, Nellie, who “I adore and love spending time with.” She believes that her personality is her most unique trait and that it helps her connect to her patients in special ways. “It’s unbelievable what a smile and a few kind words can do for someone receiving terrible news.”
Recently, Jessica was placed at Heritage Valley Health System as a medical assistant. She did this all before she was even a graduate! When asked about her new career, she lights up! “I actually didn’t have an “ideal job” in mind for after graduation. I honestly didn’t expect my career to take off like it has. I just always knew I wanted to do more with my abilities.” She is doing just that as she is working in a surgical associates’ office and expanding her skill set daily. Eventually, Jessica would love to become a Registered Nurse. “I know that is what I want for myself and I know I can do it. Attending East Ohio has changed my life and I plan on going back to earn my RN.”
To learn more about East Ohio’s family atmosphere, caring environment, and student experiences like Jessica’s, visit us today at www.eastohio.edu.