A Journey Back to School: Edith's Story

Invested in the growth of its employees, AltaMed is committed to providing educational opportunities through its Workforce Development programs.  The Annenberg School of Nursing LVN program (read more) is part of the AltaMed Nursing School Collaborative, which helps employees continuously advance their careers. 

The decision to return to school can feel overwhelming, but Edith found support and encouragement every step of the way. Some of her mentors include Dr. Khoury, Workforce Development Director Anabel Arroyo, and Medical Director of Medical Education Marco Angulo.

“AltaMed does help and encourage us to grow,” she says. “I had to be in the right mental space to feel ready, and with their guidance, it finally felt like the right time to move on. So this year, I enrolled in the new LVN program, which I knew was going to open many more doors than I previously had as a medical assistant.”  

Once enrolled, Edith began an apprenticeship with AltaMed and transitioned into a new role in AltaMed’s urgent care unit, where she gains hands-on experience caring for patients of all ages. Reflecting on the donor-funded support she receives, Edith says, “What AltaMed is doing for us is an amazing blessing. They let us focus on school Monday through Friday and opened an apprenticeship for us that provides 24 paid hours. We can commit to an additional six hours if we’re comfortable working 30 hours, and if we need to work the extra 10 hours to reach 40, they make time for us.”  

The program’s flexible structure allows Edith to continue working while studying, giving her the opportunity to continue her education without pausing her career. “It’s great to see how much the company cares not just about the patients but also about the employees,” she says. “Just like AltaMed says, employees are their greatest assets.”  

“A lot of students don’t know where to turn for help. That’s why programs like the Annenberg School of Nursing LVN program are so important,” says Edith. “They provide extra support before and after class, and registered nurses and physicians are always available to answer questions.”  

Edith also enjoys supporting her fellow students. “I try to be like her [Dr. Khoury] with the students because my background is more in-depth in the medical field,” she says. “I’m there to share that experience and guide them to succeed. I let my hardships guide me so they won’t have to go through the same thing.”  

“Many people believe that if you haven’t figured things out by 25, it’s too late,” Edith says with a smile. “But our brains never stop developing, and our minds never stop learning. It’s never too late to start something new.”  

Outside of work and school, Edith cherishes time with her two children. She plans to continue her education — first earning an associate’s degree and later a bachelor’s degree, likely in health care management.  She says, “I want to enjoy my life, spend time with my kids, and still keep moving forward professionally.”