“To all NTSOC Instructors, 

It has been a pleasure, and I am very thankful for all your efforts and assistance. I am a graduate of the CNA class and would like to share my story. 

One day I found myself homeless, out in the cold in Colorado Springs. It made me examine myself. I knew I needed a change. I could’ve gone back home to South Dakota where I have plenty of friends that would give me a warm bed and a bit to eat, but the thought of running into my ex-husband frightened me, so I decided to stay here. I sought the life before I met my ex and tried to seek help in S.D., but there’s nothing available. I then thought of becoming a Nurse Aide and found out that Pikes Peak Workforce Center would help me and they told me about a scholarship that I could apply for so I did and I got approved! I then enrolled at NTSOC. It was a struggle to care for my body and get through 7 to 10 chapters a day, but the instructors were understanding and gave me a lot of help. They let me come early and sit in the breakroom so I could study. I didn’t get special treatment, but they are very encouraging and approachable.  

My efforts finally paid off, during the last day of our clinical at Pikes Peak Care Center, a nurse pulled me aside and asked me to apply at the facility, so I did and got the job immediately after my graduation. I passed my State Exam and became certified. I got Medical assistance and started procedures to fix my teeth. With the job I have now as a CNA, my food stamps and medical aid will end this month. I can afford to rent an apartment, and I am no longer homeless. I have a good job, a place to live, and I am ready to take on the world! 

Please note: I give most of the credit to God without my spiritual life I am nothing. NTSOC and Pikes Peak Workforce are the stepping stores, and they tremendously changed my life.”

K.L.

“I successfully passed my written/skills exam yesterday and am now officially certified! Thank you so much, NTSOC, for all you have done to prepare me for this exam. I am happy that I chose NTSOC for my source and I’m so lucky that I was able to meet all you wonderful people! You are all so inspiring and obviously, love what you do. Thank you for putting your students up to high standards and expecting the best treatment of a client. It has been an honor to be a part of this program, and I enjoyed coming to class every day. Thank you for making NTSOC a fun and comfortable environment for the students to learn without feeling judged or inadequately prepared. 

I have several interviews lined up in Minnesota next week, where I will be starting my second year at nursing school (Bethel University). I am so excited to start my nursing career as a CNA! 

I will recommend this program to others for their CNA certification. Once again, I cannot thank you all enough for all that you put into this program.”

SARAH