OFTC’s Jessica Lin Begins Career as CNA, Sets Sights on Nursing

A career in nursing often begins with a first step—and for Jessica Lin, that step was at the patient’s bedside as a Certified Nurse Aide (CNA). By choosing to begin with hands-on experience, she gained a meaningful introduction to patient care while laying the groundwork for a future in nursing. 

Becoming a CNA 

After encouragement from her aunt, who suggested she pursue her dream of becoming a nurse by starting as a CNA, Lin enrolled in Oconee Fall Line Technical College’s (OFTC) two-semester Nurse Aide program. 

“Not only was OFTC close to me, but I’ve had friends go to OFTC who’ve said nothing but good things about the college, the teachers, and their experience,” she shared. 

It didn’t take long for Lin to realize she made the right decision. 

“My entire experience as a student at OFTC was nothing short of insightful, informative, and interesting,” she said. 

The hands-on application embedded into OFTC’s Nurse Aide program proved especially valuable. 

“Part of the nurse aide program involved practicing mock skills like manual blood pressure and assisting with ambulation using a gait belt,” Lin explained. “Utilizing what I learned in my clinical rotations also helped me tremendously when it came to hands-on experience.” 

“Hands down, I had complete confidence in myself when it came time to take my certification exam,” she added. 

Launching A Career 

Lin completed the Nurse Aide program in April 2024 and took the National Nurse Aide Assessment Program (NNAAP) exam in July. After passing on her first attempt, she officially began her career as a CNA at Dublinair Nursing Home in August. 

She now spends her shifts supporting nurses and caring for residents while applying the skills she developed as a student. 

“My responsibilities include feeding, bathing, changing briefs, helping transfer residents, providing personal care, offering comfort to residents and their family members, and taking vital signs,” Lin said. 

Although she is now working in the field, Lin says she continues to learn every day. 

“Even now as a CNA, I’m still learning new things,” she shared. “The nurses at Dublinair allow me to assist or observe certain tasks because they know I’m eager to learn what nurses do as well.” 

Looking Ahead 

Lin says she’s grateful she chose to become a CNA before enrolling in a nursing program, as it has given her valuable experience and a realistic perspective on healthcare. 

“Being a nurse aide has helped me understand what working in the healthcare field is really like,” she said. “There will be good days and bad days, but what matters most is providing the highest level of care to the patient or resident.” 

While the work can be challenging, Lin believes dedication and self-discipline will help her reach her goals. 

“I plan to further my education by enrolling in OFTC’s Practical Nursing program so I can continue caring for patients and residents in even more ways,” she said. 

“I know that as long as I remain dedicated and motivated, my hard work will not go unnoticed, and I’ll get where I want to be.” 

To learn more about OFTC’s CNA program, visit the college’s website, OFTC.edu.  

The CNA program is eligible for the Hope Career Grant and free tuition which is available to HOPE Grant-qualified students who enroll in select majors specifically aligned with industries in which there are more jobs available in Georgia than there are skilled workers to fill them.  

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