Medical Assistant Student Seeks New Path with a Similar Purpose

For Kiashia Patrick, the decision to return to school grew out of years spent listening, supporting, and showing up for children who needed more than just lesson plans.

As a teacher working at Wings for Kids—an after-school program specializing in social-emotional learning—Kiashia helped train staff members and teachers on how to support children emotionally and behaviorally. But she knew she could do more.

“I realized I care more for kids than to only teach them,” she said. “I want to make sure they’re physically and mentally OK, especially knowing some of their situations.”

Now a Medical Assistant student at United Education Institute’s (UEI) Morrow campus, Kiashia is preparing to enter a career that will allow her to help others—including children, her true passion—in a more meaningful way.

A Career Built Around Children

Before enrolling at UEI, Kiashia spent four years working at Wings for Kids. As a Senior Wings Leader, her role was to ensure the teaching staff continued to grow in their knowledge and training.

“Every week, we focus on different categories,” she said. “Teaching kids how to control their emotions, understand they’re unique, and learn to love themselves.”

Within her position, much of Kiashia’s day-to-day work went beyond instruction. She often found herself supporting students who were sick, overwhelmed, or dealing with challenges at home. Over time, this role reshaped how she viewed her future.

“I work with kids and parents already,” she said. “I thought, why not choose a career where I could help them in a bigger way?”

Having helped care for both of her parents, each of whom had undergone major medical procedures, further contributed to her desire to pursue a future in healthcare.

“I’m already doing this at home, so I can do it as a career,” she said.

A New Direction with UEI

A career in healthcare had always interested Kiashia, but it wasn’t until she spoke with a representative at UEI that her path became clear. Kiashia said the program’s structure, flexibility, and focus on hands-on learning aligned perfectly with her life as a working parent.

“My mom actually went to UEI a few years ago to become a medical assistant,” she said. “So I already knew about it.”

With her mother’s experience as motivation, Kiashia enrolled in the Medical Assistant program at the Morrow campus and is currently on track to graduate this summer. From early on in her time as a student, she felt confident in her decision.

“I just wanted to do something different,” she said. “I want more than just a job.”

Kiashia said one of the biggest benefits offered at UEI has been its flexibility. With two children at home, ages 8 and 11, she needed a program that fit into her schedule rather than competing with it.

“I don’t have to be in a classroom five days a week,” she said. “Some of it is online, and that works perfectly for me.”

The balance has allowed her to continue working while being present for her family. Her daughters have been watching her journey closely, even if they’re still figuring out what it all means.

“My oldest is excited,” Kiashia said. “She likes hearing about what I’m learning. My youngest is shocked. She’s like, ‘Momma, you go to school, too?!’”

For Kiashia, that reaction matters.

“I want to set an example for my kids,” she said. “I want them to see that learning doesn’t stop.”

Growing Confident and Looking Ahead

In the classroom and lab, Kiashia has found herself challenged in new ways. While she enjoys the academic side of the program, it’s the hands-on work that stands out most.

“I like the labs,” she said. “We’re not just sitting around reading. We process blood specimens and learn how to use microscopes. I had never done that before.”

One unexpected milestone came when she faced a long-standing fear.

“I used to be afraid of needles,” she laughed.

Through repeated practice and instructor support, Kiashia said that fear began to fade. She credits her instructors, including Tamika Latham, for taking the time to explain concepts both in the lab and outside of class hours.

“They stay available,” she said. “Email, cell phone, group meetings—even late at night, you can still reach them.”

That support helped her build confidence not just in technical skills, but in herself. Leaning on this newfound confidence, Kiashia hopes to work in pediatrics following graduation. The connection is just natural, she said.

Over the long term, she hopes to continue her education and eventually pursue nursing. For now, her focus is on completing the program, applying for jobs, and taking pride in the new direction she’s chosen.

“I’m excited to celebrate myself,” she said. “I accomplished something new.”