JOB CORPS 
“Job Corps taught me discipline, how to listen, and to budget,” explained Shakia Smith. “But the most notable thing I learned was to apply myself to everything I do.”
The Cleveland Job Corps Center alumni recently completed the Licensed Practical Nurses program at Northern Career Institute on June 3, 2021.
On May 22, 2019, Shakia completed the Nursing Assistant program at the Cleveland Job Corps Center. She earned her Certified Nursing Assistant, State Tested Nursing Assistant, Home Health Aide, ServSafe, CPR, and First Aid credentials. “I truly believe having strong teachers and mentors helped me get to where I am.
One person who encouraged me was Carla Widener, my Nursing Instructor, and if I started slacking, she would stay on me until I got back on track. Work-Based Learning Coordinator Melonie Harrell didn’t allow me to get away with anything. They were both tough on me but, it was because they both cared about me,” described Shakia.
“Future nursing students need to understand they need to be compassionate, yet tough, great communicators, but most importantly calm because they will be dealing with all types of people from all walks of life,” recommends Shakia.
The twenty-year-old enjoys her job at Cedarwood Plaza and views working in the medical field as a humbling and rewarding experience. Committed to achieving her full potential, Shakia is looking forward to returning to school; she plans to become a Registered Nurse and eventually a Nurse Practitioner.