Eighteen years after earning a Bachelor’s degree in education, I decided to embark upon a new career in healthcare. It was a big decision to leave the teaching profession and a steady paycheck to return to school full-time.  

I enrolled in the Medical Office Administration program at Lenoir Community College at the age of thirty-nine, and initially felt quite apprehensive to be returning to college after so many years. However, I quickly found everyone to be friendly yet professional. Also, the small class sizes have allowed for an exchange of ideas and opportunities to ask questions. The medical office and accounting courses have been challenging, and I have worked hard to do well. In addition to my coursework, I have had the opportunity to volunteer in a local home health and hospice office each week.

I appreciate the opportunity to learn and am excited about expanding my knowledge base in preparation for re-entering the workforce. After graduation from LCC in May 2013, I plan to take the CPC exam to become a Certified Professional Coder. I am blessed that my husband and two teenage children support and encourage me in my education.