NCC Medical Assistants Earn Diplomas
Nash Community College recently held a pinning ceremony to recognize eleven graduates from the medical assisting diploma program. Each individual completed the academic and clinical work required to become Medical Assistants as determined by the American Association of Medical Assistants (AAMA). According to program director Nancy Worsinger, “Some have chosen to enter the workforce at this time, while others have returned to campus this fall for additional coursework leading to an associate’s degree in applied sciences.” All of the graduates are eligible to take the national certification exam that will earn them the credential of Certified Medical Assistant, or CMA.
This is the seventh class of diploma students to reach this milestone since the Nash Community College program began in 2007. The college developed the program in response to the needs of the surrounding health care community and since that time, the demand for qualified medical assistants has continued to grow. The National Bureau of Labor Statistics projects a 29% increase in employment for medical assistants over the next 10 years and we have seen that reflected locally in the excellent job placement rate of our graduates.
“The list of required courses for the diploma is very long – totaling 45 credit hours – and requires an overload every semester if completed in one year,” Worsinger said. “Since many of our students are adults with families and part-time or full-time jobs, time management skills are critical to success. I’m continually in awe of what our students are able to balance. And for many, it is the support and understanding of family and friends that make their success possible.”
Pictured on the front row, from left to right: Anna Owens, Elm City; Morgan Willcox, Rocky Mount; and Jessica Winstead, Wilson. Second row: Janicia Rover, Roanoke Rapids; Maria Caudle, Rocky Mount; and Melanie Craft, Rocky Mount. Back row: Janet Silver, Louisburg; Elizabeth Hernandez, Bailey; and Shonlel Evans, Rocky Mount. Not pictured: Amber Crocker, Rocky Mount and Sonal Rathod, Rocky Mount.
