As a child, Taylor Love watched the television drama “Grey’s Anatomy” in rapt attention. So much so that the show became a guidepost for her career aspirations.
“I enjoyed watching the show and the difference the medical teams made in the patients’ lives they saved. Originally, I wanted to be a surgeon; but all the time I would have to spend in school made me look for other careers in healthcare where I could achieve the same goal without as much time in school,” Taylor recounted.
“That’s how I decided to be a registered nurse then become a doctor of nursing.” But in a tough job market, Taylor knew that she needed experience or certifications or licenses to break into the field.
Fortunately, Taylor didn’t have to search far to find out about the healthcare career programs the Urban League of Greater Atlanta operates. Her mother, who works at the League, encouraged Taylor to sign up for guidance with a career counselor.
“My experience was nothing short of amazing. The staff set me up with great opportunities to help me advance toward my career goals,” she said.
For starters, Taylor took courses and earned CNA (Certified Nursing Assistant) and Phlebotomy certificates. Now, she is using her CNA certificate as a patient care tech.
“My goal is to be a Family Nurse Practitioner, and my CNA certificate has opened doors for me in a hospital setting with many shadow and work opportunities,” she added.
“I collaborate with other NPs and doctors daily, and they give me tips and tricks to remember. Also, some of the things I’ve seen at work, the textbooks could never do justice to in terms of how small and sometimes big our anatomy is.”
Taylor is enthusiastic about her journey.
“From day one, I’ve enjoyed the atmosphere. I learned that even in small acts, I am still helping and making a difference. I performed CPR with an actual code team just like Grey’s Anatomy, and everything I used to watch as a kid was right in front of me. I LOVED IT!”
Taylor said she’d encourage anyone interested in the healthcare field – and other sectors – to explore pathways available at the Urban League. “The Urban League has great opportunities to help you advance; you just have to want it,” she said.
“The instructors go out of their way to care for you, which helps the class environment. If you can’t pick yourself up some days, they lift a hand to help.”
