Christina Cepeda - Single Mother of Two
MY DREAM JOB
Today was one of those days that reminds me why I do what I do. A nervous mom came in with her little girl, who was scared and clutching her favorite stuffed animal. The child needed tests for a kidney issue, and you could see the worry in her eyes. I knelt down and gently explained each step in simple words, letting her hold my hand and commenting on how brave she was. By the end, she was smiling, and her mom was visibly relieved. It’s these moments, helping families feel safe and supported, that mean the most.
I try to be more than just a medical assistant. I try to be a source of comfort. I talk to the parents, and because I’m a mom, I know what they’re going through. Sometimes I speak to them in Spanish, telling them, “You’re not alone. We’ll figure this out together.”
If you had told me four years ago that I’d be here today, working in the medical field, I never would have believed you. My work is rewarding beyond words.
FAST TRACK FOR CHANGE
Laredo College changed my life. In just three months, I was able to earn a certificate in medical technology that launched me into my dream career as a medical assistant.
I was a recently divorced, single mother of two in my early forties, working a 9-to-5 job at a car dealership. I had always wanted to work in the medical field, but I figured that dream had passed me by. I hadn’t been to school in years, and only had a few college credits.
My ex-husband used to tell me I was too old to go back to school and that I’d never amount to anything. I was starting to believe him.
The pandemic hit Laredo hard. Our city had one of the worst outbreaks in the country, and our hospitals were overwhelmed. There weren’t enough medical workers to meet the demand.
AN OPPORTUNITY ARISES
One day, during the lockdown, my kids and I were driving in the car, when we heard a radio ad calling for people to train as medical assistants at Laredo College. The program had been shortened from twelve to three months because the city desperately needed medical workers.
My son Benny and daughter Bianca lit up.
“You should do that, Mama!” they said.
But I wasn’t so sure.
“I’m too old,” I told them, “I haven’t been to school in so long!”
Something sparked in me when I saw their excitement. I always encourage my kids to push themselves, and now it was time for me to do the same. I wanted to show them it’s never too late to chase your dreams.
MY KIDS AND I STUDIED TOGETHER
With their support, I took the plunge. My son even helped me learn how to use Zoom! For the next three months, my kids and I sat at the dining room table together, me doing my coursework while they did theirs. I was nervous but determined.
And it paid off. I passed my exam and earned my certification. In just 90 days, Laredo College gave me the knowledge, confidence, and skills to become a medical assistant. Now, I’m working my dream job, helping families in our community.
MY CALLING
The clinic has opened up opportunities for me I never dreamed of. Day in and day out, I saw how stressed families were about going to a different clinic to get their kids’ blood drawn. I knew that extra trip was a burden, especially for parents dealing with so much already. It occurred to me that we could create a blood draw station at our clinic. I presented the idea to my supervisors and they agreed. They even arranged for me to get additional training.
Now, families don’t have to make another trip for something so simple, yet essential. It’s a small thing, but it has made a huge difference. It’s moments like that when I know I’m making an impact.
My job isn’t just work; it’s about making a difference. I love what I do. Being a medical assistant allows me to be there for families during some of the hardest moments of their lives. It’s a privilege, and I wouldn’t have this opportunity without Laredo College. They believed in me and gave me the chance to begin a new chapter in my life in record time.
ENDLESS POSSIBILITIES
Laredo College offered me a fast-track to a better life. Now, I’m able to support my kids, serve my community, and live a life I’m proud of—all thanks to the opportunities that came from that one decision to enroll.
In many ways, everything has come full circle. I’m giving back to my community, the very place that gave me the tools I needed to succeed. And I’m showing my kids every day that it’s never too late to chase your dreams.
