Nya Jenkins is now working full-time as a surgical technologist

In high school, Nya Jenkins knew she wanted to work in health care. She received nurse aide training as part of her high school curriculum and passed the state Certified Nurse Aid examination.

But, it was Atrium Health Navicent’s Rise to Success program that set her on her current path. Two years later, Jenkins is the program’s first graduate and, with an associate degree completed she also has a full-time job at Atrium Health Navicent The Medical Center as a surgical technologist.

“The Rise to Success program helped me establish myself, expand my vision and get a job straight out of high school,” Jenkins said. “It also inspired my siblings to go to school and helped me be a better role model for them. Seeing the impact I had on my family inspired me and gave me the push to keep going.”

Rise to Success offers central Georgia graduating high school seniors an opportunity to earn an associate degree at a local community college while gaining valuable on-the-job experience. Tuition, textbooks, activity fees and scrubs are paid for by Atrium Health Navicent for up to three years, as long as the student remains in the program.

While earning an associate degree in a health care field, participants work part-time in entry-level positions such as guest services, patient services, registration, patient transport or in clerical or administrative positions. Students also have access to a mentor who supports their academic work and success throughout the program.

Jenkins earned an Associate of Science degree in surgical technology from Central Georgia Technical College and began working full time at Atrium Health Navicent The Medical Center last month. After taking a break from school, she plans to continue her education with a goal of becoming a nurse.

“As hospitals across the nation continue to face a growing need for health care workers, it’s so very important that Atrium Health Navicent does all it can to support young people in pursuing health care careers right here in central Georgia,” said Atrium Health Georgia Market President Delvecchio Finley. “By helping young people like Nya, we’re securing a pipeline of trained health care workers to fill critical job roles for today and the future. Congratulations to Nya on her graduation, and her new role!”

To learn more about the Rise to Success program, email [email protected].