Medical assistants are responsible for a variety of important administrative duties, including greeting patients, updating and filing patients’ medical records, and scheduling appointments. These medical assistants are an important part of any healthcare team as they are typically responsible for the clinical tasks that assist and support the doctor and the other medical staff. At Carrington College, we receive a lot of questions about the medical assisting profession so we would like to share some thoughts from our new Medical Assisting Program Director at Carrington College in Reno, Ashley Taylor.
Can you please tell us a little about your professional background?
I was an in-field medical assistant for about five years. I did one year in oncology which was extremely rewarding, however, that particular specialty does take an emotional toll. I then went into dermatology for a little over four years. Dermatology I found to be my home; I fell in love with everything that Dermatology has to offer. I worked for a wonderful physician assistant (PA), and we took care of each other. I left that practice after finding out that my provider was going to be leaving and was offered a position as an instructor at another college. I felt that I had gained so much knowledge outside of being in school, that I would be able to bring all the experience with me and help new medical assistant students find their way into the field with confidence. I truly enjoyed the years that I spent helping to mold minds and produce amazing medical assistants into the community.
What do you like the most about Carrington College?
I like that you truly do feel like a family here at Carrington College. I enjoy the support that is given from everyone, and how welcomed I have felt from day one.
Can you please tell us about your new position?
As the Medical Assisting Program Director, it can be a bit challenging at times. However, I would not trade this for anything as it is for the better of our students as well as our community. I am one that likes to be in the classroom as well, and let the students know that I am available to them if they need any help with class, or any other problems.
What are some of your responsibilities?
I am responsible for keeping the instructors accountable for their actions, as well as the students. I ensure that all ordering is done, and in a timely manner so that we have everything that we need for the students for their classes. Also being that go-to if someone needs the extra support.
What are some of your goals?
I would like to grow this program and keep the absolute best reputation out in the medical community, as I would like for local medical offices to know that if they are getting any of our graduates, they are getting the best.
What do you like the most about working in education?
I truly enjoy the fact that I get to help the students find their way. Some of our students come in extremely young and do not truly know if this is what they want to do or know what it really means to be a medical assistant. One of my absolute favorite parts about working in education is when I see a student that may be down on themselves because they didn’t get something right the first time, or even the first five times. I enjoy helping them along and watching them grow and find that confidence within themselves to get it done. Seeing students eyes light up and get excited is what makes it easy to come to work every day.
What is one of your proudest accomplishments?
My proudest accomplishment is when I put myself through school as a single mother to better my life. I bought my first home at 19 shortly after having my son, and then put myself through school to have a better life for him.
Any advice for students entering the Medical Assisting program?
This is not easy; however, it is worth it. I can speak from experience that there will be rough patches, and if you keep the mindset that you can do this, you will do this. Don’t be afraid to ask for help if you need it and remember that your instructors are always there to help.
