Maria arrived from El Salvador in 2013 with little knowledge of the English language. With such an immense limitation, she paved the way for herself and her children by taking up work in two pizza shops to make ends meet. Referred to the Consortium by a coworker, Maria began working with a career counselor to navigate her circumstances and unique barriers to gainful, sustainable employment.
The Workforce Specialist assisted Maria in enrolling in an integrated English Training Pilot Program at Hagerstown Community College. By gaining bilingual status, Maria was able to cultivate her interests into a career path, opting to continue her education by enrolling in the CNA/GNA program at the same facility. Training consisted of two nights each week with content covering CNA duties, medical terminology and procedures, and English Literacy an additional support class. Over the course of 9 months, Maria gained confidence, enthusiasm, and a CNA license to practice.
Taking this knowledge and determination into the real world began as a paid internship at Meritus Hospital that then bloomed into accolades from managers and numerous nominations for workplace awards that reward leadership, diligence, and lasting impact on patients. Maria’s work ethic is identifiable by her willingness to answer call lights and assist in any way possible with no complaints, despite often being the only CNA on the labor and delivery floor. In the words of her team member, “people like Maria are hard to find.” In recognition of Maria’s passion and dedication to the patients and staff at Meritus, on June 18, 2025, Maria was honored with the CNA of the Year-Women’s and Children’s award.
As of now, Maria is continuing her studies to target the TEAS test, one of the many steps in completing nursing programs. She aims to continue her success for years to come.
