Going from two part-time jobs to earning three credentials and a full-time job in the healthcare field in months is an impressive feat. And Kouri, a 24-year-old student from Central Virginia Community College (CVCC) did just that through the FastForward program.
Through the FastForward program, Kouri was able to take classes at CVCC over a four-month period, only paying one-third of the tuition rate. When all was said and done, Kouri earned the following certifications: Certified Clinical Medical Assistant, EKG Technician, and Phlebotomy Technician by the American Medical Certification Association. Thanks to the FastForward grant combined with additional financial aid, her total out-of-pocket cost was $71.00.
“For the money and time spent, you can’t beat coming out with three certifications and walking into a full-time job,” said Kouri. “It was a lot of work in a small period of time, but it was totally worth it. I am finishing my internship and have a job, thanks to a teacher recommendation.”
Kouri is using her newly earned certifications as a Certified Medical Assistant, working with patients, conducting lab work, providing emergency medical services, and assisting doctors.
“I’m sure the medical field is where I want to continue,” said Tweedy. “I want to keep taking classes and hopefully one day become a nurse practitioner. [FastForward] was my gateway to that path. It really opened my eyes to realize how important education is and showed me that if you push through it, you will go places, both personally and financially.”