Ashleigh Solano graduated from the Medical Assisting program at the Carrington College, Las Vegas campus in August of 2024. She was nominated for the graduate spotlight by her instructor, Jacqueline Edwards (“Miss Jackie” to her students).
“I remember her starting in class, excited and eager to learn,” Ms. Edwards shared. “She quickly became a mentor in term three. What inspired me the most during her program was that when she was faced with some extreme challenges at home, she never quit. She has since found her own place, graduated, and landed a great job in the field.”
Ashleigh loved her time in the program, and she still visits Ms. Edwards once a week—still helping to inspire and motivate current students.
What did you do before enrolling in the Medical Assisting program at Carrington College?
I was working at T Mobile in the business and government section. I worked with major corporation accounts, such as Colorado State University. I was one of the key points of contact to support customers, to troubleshoot, and keep things running smoothly.
What made you want to study Medical Assisting?
I really wanted to be an RN—I’m a little older than the typical student, so I decided to test the waters and see if I even liked the medical field. I’m a very hands-on parent and being there for my kids is important to me, so I spoke to my oldest child to see what he thought about me starting school. He was really supportive.
How was your experience in the program? What did you like most, and what was most challenging?
I loved it—and a big part of that is because I had a great teacher, Miss Jackie. She was so caring and involved with her students, and I felt I could go to her for anything. That is what got me through the program. There were times when I went to her when I felt I couldn’t do it. I’m so glad I did, because she talked me through it and encouraged me to stay. She said, “You are already halfway through…keep going! Look at the example you are setting for your kids.” She wrangled me in and really opened my eyes. She was so supportive and kind. I still visit her often and share what’s going on in my life.
Another great part of the program was that I bonded a lot with classmates. We were there for each other, we had baby showers and potlucks, we all just looked out for one another. They could tell when things weren’t going well or when I wasn’t myself, and they stepped in. I was a mentor for almost my whole time there, and I helped advocate for other students. I have no problem asking hard questions, and I try to be understanding.
My favorite part of the program itself, though, was the networking. I loved meeting people and becoming close to doctors, helping Miss Jackie, mentoring—those things. I also enjoyed the medical field, but it was the connections I loved most of all.
I was working full time, 6:30 a.m.-3:30 p.m., then off to class in the evenings, in person, Tuesday-Thursday. I was also a team mom for my son’s football team. And even on the days or hours I was not in class—every day something was due, so I was constantly studying or preparing for class. Having so much to do each day was a challenge, but I had great support at school and from my family.
Where do you work now, and what do you do?
I work at Advanced Dermatology and Cosmetic Center. I work at the front desk, helping to check people in and out and answering their questions. We do filler, Botox, and offer other cosmetic services. We also sell skin care products.
What do you like most about your job?
The thing I like most is that I get to learn about dermatology—I have a personal interest in learning about skin because I have dealt with skin issues myself. I love that I get to learn so much about what Botox can do beyond the cosmetic benefits. Botox can treat headaches, teeth clenching, and excessive sweating, for example—that can be life-changing for people, and I love that.
What are your plans for furthering your education?
I still want to be an RN, but I know myself, and going back to school for two years straight won’t work for me. So, I’m planning on working toward it in steps—I am going back for my associate degree in Health Studies, that’s a (in as few as) seven-month program, so I’ll complete it in February. From there I will work toward my goal of becoming a Registered Nurse. I still want to be part of my kids’ lives, want to be available for them—so working toward my RN this way makes the most sense for me.
Do you have any advice for people who are about to enroll, or those who are just beginning the Medical Assisting program?
I would just say, go with your gut feeling—and just take the leap of faith. It’s never too late. I worked with a Nurse Practitioner (NP) who became an NP in her 50s. It’s never too late to start a new career.
For those just enrolled in the program, my advice is: don’t stress yourself out. Find someone who is open and understanding, that you can confide in, or someone who has been through it, and embrace their support and wisdom.
