Vashawna has always had a genuine desire to help people and, more importantly, to work in healthcare.  She had worked for several years in a clerical support position in a laboratory but always with a longing in her heart to do more.  She had often considered nursing throughout her work life but was held back because of the time between pre-requisite courses and clinical rotation and her need to continue working.  

She connected with Dorsey College and found that they offered a 1-year program that allowed her to work within a fixed time frame.  For a full year, she worked part-time and picked up extra shifts where available while she studied full-time and worked towards her goal. It was not easy, she recalls, but she appreciated the encouragement and tuition assistance from GST Michigan Works!.  

At the end of her program, she passed her state examination and obtained her LPN license.  She always thought of herself as self-motivated and determined to succeed, and her hard work has paid off in the way of endless opportunities as a new nurse in Michigan.  

Vashawna shares, “My son was very encouraging.  This year, we are both starting our new careers.  I will now be a nurse fulfilling a personal goal and dream, and he has joined the Navy. I appreciated the tuition assistance from GST Michigan Works! and the encouraging calls and support to keep me on track.”