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From CNA to Certified Medical Assistant: How Samantha Brannon Did It Online While Working Full-Time

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How Samantha Got Started in Healthcare

Meet Samantha Brannon, a graduate of Bryan University’s Clinical Medical Assistant Undergraduate Certificate program. Samantha’s career in the healthcare industry started when she was in high school. At age 17, she became a Certified Nursing Assistant and worked in nursing homes for nearly 10 years.

Why She Chose an Online Medical Assistant Program

Samantha took a break from the healthcare field for several years before deciding to return. She started by searching for online medical assisting programs; as a mom of three and a full-time employee, she needed a school that could work with her busy schedule. That’s when she found Bryan University.

“I signed up a week later,” Samantha said.

What the Bryan University Experience Was Like

Samantha said she wouldn’t change anything about her experience with Bryan University, from signing up to completing her courses. She said registering for classes was easy, with everything done on a timeline.

The admissions team answered all her questions and made sure she had everything she needed before classes started. “They were just great along the way, the communication was perfect. I didn’t have to wait for responses, they were on top of everything.”

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How She Balanced School With a Busy Schedule

Her biggest challenge during her education was balancing her busy schedule. She said the flexibility of the online program made it possible for her to complete her degree. “There was no way I would have been able to do it in person. It had to be online.”

Samantha said in addition to the flexibility of the program, the understanding of her instructors made a huge impact on her ability to further her education. They were always available to answer questions and provided support and encouragement. “They were very, very understanding that everybody has different schedules.”

What Happened Before She Even Graduated

Before finishing her degree, Samantha secured a job working as a Medical Assistant in a doctor’s office. She said the schedule gives her more time to be present with her family. “I have more time with my kids, just more time with family. I wouldn’t have been able to do that at my other jobs.”

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How Her Training Prepared Her for the Job

In her current role, Samantha said the skills she learned in her virtual clinicals are invaluable. At Bryan University, an at-home medical kit is included with the cost of tuition, allowing students to practice and demonstrate their skills.

“The virtual clinics are so beneficial,” she said. “Without having some knowledge of pharmaceuticals, or knowing the proper way to take vitals…it’s the little minor details that seem nitpicky when you’re learning, but those are what’s going to make all the difference when you’re actually doing it.”

Samantha’s Advice for Anyone Considering Going Back to School

Her advice for anyone thinking about furthering their education? Just do it.

“There’s never a better time. You’re not going to regret it. It’s going to be the best decision ever.”

“I had such a good experience,” Samantha said of her time with Bryan University. “The way that they have incorporated being able to teach you the skills you need to actually do the job and be able to learn them virtually, it’s just — it was great.”

Ready to get started? Learn more about Bryan University’s Clinical Medical Assistant Undergraduate Certificate today!

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