Personal Passion Helps Garden Grove MA Student Take the Next Step
For Tanya Azpeitia, the path to higher education wasn’t exactly straightforward. A few years after graduating high school, Tanya admits she still wasn’t certain about her future.
“I didn’t really know what I wanted to do with my life,” she said. “People told me I needed to go back to school, but I didn’t want to put my time or money into something just because it seemed like the next step.”
Instead, Tanya focused on raising her young child and working various jobs to make ends meet. She did what she had to do to get by, and while going back to school remained top of mind, it never felt realistic.
Her outlook began to change when she met her fiancé. He lives with a disability and often deals with chronic aches and pains. Caring for him became a pivotal experience.
“Helping him made me realize how much I wanted to be in the medical field,” Tanya said. “It gave me direction. I didn’t just want a job anymore. I wanted a career where I could make a difference for people who need care.”
That realization reignited her drive to continue her education and build a future for herself and her family. Today, she’s a Medical Assistant student at UEI College’s Garden Grove campus.
Growing Skills and Confidence at UEI College
When Tanya started exploring schools, UEI College quickly stood out. The Garden Grove campus offered the Medical Assistant program she was drawn to, but it was also the people and atmosphere that convinced her she was in the right place.
“From the moment I walked in, everyone was welcoming,” she said. “They made me feel comfortable, and I could tell they really care about their students’ success.”
Tanya was also encouraged by how the program was structured.
“I like that the classes are hands-on,” she said. “It’s not just about sitting in a classroom. You get to practice the skills you’ll actually use in the field.”
As a Medical Assistant student, Tanya has gained confidence in her abilities and developed the skills she’ll need for her career. She particularly enjoys the clinical aspects of the program.
“I love learning how to take vital signs, draw blood, and do things that make me feel like I’m really preparing to help patients,” she says. “It’s exciting to see how far I’ve come.”
And her instructors have played a big role in that growth. The different teaching styles of MA instructors Susan Herrera and Joseph Alvarez, Tanya said, combined to make a significant impact on her learning and the way she prepares for her future career.
“They’ve been patient, supportive, and they don’t give up on you,” she said. “If you’re struggling, they’ll take the time to explain it until you get it.”
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Looking Ahead to a Medical Career
Tanya is determined to use her education to build a meaningful career. After graduating, she hopes to work in a clinic or doctor’s office, where she can support patients and provide compassionate care.
“I want to be the kind of Medical Assistant who helps people feel comfortable and cared for,” she said. “I know what it’s like to need support, and I want to be that person for someone else.”
Eventually, she would like to continue her medical education in phlebotomy, then perhaps nursing and kinesiology. She would like to have the knowledge and skills to take better care for her family at home, specifically her fiancé.
And speaking of family, Tanya feels proud to set an example for her kids.
“I want my child to see that even if you don’t know what you want to do at first, it’s never too late to figure it out and go after it,” she said.
Reflecting on her journey, Tanya encourages others who might feel uncertain about school to take the leap.
“Even if you’re not sure, don’t let fear stop you,” she said. “UEI College has been such a supportive environment for me. If you’re willing to put in the work, you’ll be amazed at what you can accomplish.”
For Tanya, what started as doubt has transformed into determination. With her Medical Assistant training underway, she’s not just preparing for a job; she’s building a future filled with purpose, compassion, and the chance to make a difference every day.
