From the Military to Medicine: Stone Mountain Student Finds Her Purpose

Upon returning home from a military deployment in Kuwait and Iraq, Alicia Vernon found herself standing at a crossroads.

After years of serving in the Army National Guard, she had developed a deep sense of discipline, compassion, and service. And as she transitioned back to civilian life, she wanted to channel those same values into a new purpose — one that would let her continue helping others, just in a different uniform.

That search led her to United Education Institute (UEI) in Stone Mountain, Georgia, where Alicia recently completed the Medical Assistant program and discovered a career that feels like an ideal fit.

“I’ve always wanted to do something in the medical field,” she said. “Being able to help people and make them feel better … it brings me joy.”

A Path Shaped by Service

Alicia’s military experience shaped her passion for medicine in unexpected ways. During her four years in the Army National Guard, she trained as a Combat Lifesaver (CLS), a certification that teaches soldiers how to treat injuries and save lives in the field.

“Helping people in the military and in the field made me want to pursue it even more,” she said. “It opened my eyes to how much I enjoy caring for others.”

Those lessons in calm, focused care stayed with her long after returning home. When Alicia began thinking about life after deployment, she knew she wanted to keep making a difference.

While searching online for schools that could accommodate her work schedule and National Guard responsibilities, Alicia came across UEI. What caught her attention was the flexibility of the Medical Assistant program and the opportunity to learn through hands-on training.

“I chose UEI because of its flexibility,” she said. “The program was accelerated, so I could stay on track while working and serving. Plus, they offered an externship, which really helps when it’s time to find a job.”

Before enrolling at UEI, Alicia had already earned a phlebotomy certificate, but she wanted to take her education further. After touring the Stone Mountain campus, she immediately felt at home.

“I liked how helpful everyone was when I toured the school,” she said. “They answered all my questions, and I could tell they really cared about helping students succeed.”

Alicia started her classes in January and quickly found her rhythm. Balancing work, school, and military service wasn’t easy, but she credits her instructor, Shannon Parrish, with helping her stay on top of her lessons and training.

“Ms. Parrish was very helpful,” Alicia said. “She gave me all the resources I needed to prepare for externship and exams. She also understood my schedule when I had to leave for drills and made sure I stayed caught up.”

Her commitment paid off. Alicia made the honor roll while in the program and said she felt fully prepared when the time came to start her externship.

“Alicia has been an outstanding student from day one. Her dedication, discipline, and positive attitude truly set her apart. Balancing school, work, and her service in the National Guard is no easy task, yet she approached every challenge with determination and grace,” Ms. Parrish said. “I’m so proud of the progress she’s made and the passion she brings to helping others. I have no doubt she will make an exceptional medical professional and continue to make a difference wherever she goes.”

Learning and Evolving in the Medical Field

Alicia’s externship took her to the Regenerative Orthopedic and Spine Institute, where she worked alongside healthcare professionals treating patients for knee, spine, neck, and other musculoskeletal conditions.

“I work in the clinical area, assisting with patient care and paperwork,” she said. “It’s been a great experience. And I actually have an interview with my extern site, so I’m hoping to continue there after graduation.”

The hands-on experience during her time at UEI Stone Mountain, she said, gave Alicia the confidence she was looking for heading into her externship.

“The classes were practical and real,” she said. “Learning how to take vitals, assist in exams, and work with medical equipment made me feel ready to step into a real clinic.”

With her externship nearly complete, Alicia is already planning her next move. She hopes to start nursing school in fall 2026 while continuing her service in the National Guard, with a goal of completing 20 years of military service.

“I have a strong family background in the military,” she said. “It brings a lot of structure into my life, and I want to keep that while growing my medical career.”

For anyone thinking about following a similar path, Alicia’s message is simple: go for it.

“UEI is perfect for people who are working or have kids,” she said. “The flexibility makes it possible, and the hands-on training prepares you for the real world. If you stay focused and take good notes, you’ll do great.”