Shanele has worked at Columbus City Schools for eight years, but last summer, she was looking for supplemental income to better support her four children. That’s how she learned about Goodwill’s State Tested Nursing Assistant (STNA) program.
“I had always wanted to be a nurse,” Shanele said. “But I had a baby at 18, so I wasn’t able to pursue that path. When I saw that an STNA certification was a requirement to becoming an Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN), I knew I could use this as my launching pad.”
Shanele called to learn more about the program, which was when she was introduced to Elijah, a career consultant for Goodwill.
“I was scared. Elijah sounded real intimidating over the phone, but he is actually a teddy bear,” Shanele said. “He really helps set you up for success, outlines expectations. I didn’t want to fail. I made a lot of sacrifices, but the program was everything and more.”
In addition to Goodwill’s staff, Shanele also credits the environment for her success.
“Being in the [Reeb] building was really beneficial. If we come early, they feed us. Upstairs, they helped me find housing. Everything they offer here is really nice. I wish there could be something like this in every neighborhood,” Shanele explained. “I never missed a day. I got all As. My lowest test score was a 96.”
Shanele has an upcoming interview with Nationwide Children’s Hospital and has goals to obtain her LPN and RN certifications and then work as a traveling nurse.
“This program is one of the best investments you can make for your future,” she said. “It’s a rewarding field. You get to take care of people who can’t take care of themselves.
She continued with a joke, “Don’t let Elijah scare you. He wants you to be successful. He will push you. This is not a program where you come and sit by yourself. You have to come with an open mind, be willing to meet new people, and collaborate.”
Shanele encourages anyone in a difficult situation – or wanting to better their own – to put their pride aside and be open to resources offered in the community.
“I am proud of myself for being able to stay motivationally driven. I haven’t given up, even though I have been through a lot. My mom had cancer. I had post-partum depression,” she explained. “But I made a plan, and I stuck to it. I am proud of my progress and the people I met along the way. I was open to taking advantage of the resources available to me. The support is there. You might need to stand in line or put your pride to the side. But when you come here, they see you as a person. There is a sense the someone cares about you.”
