Caring Starts Here.

Finding Purpose in Compassion

How Carteret CC Student Genevieve Muehlenkamp Found Her Calling in Medical Assisting, and the Confidence to Chase Her Dreams.

When asked what inspired her to pursue a career in medical assisting, Geneveive Muehlenkamp, a dedicated student at Carteret CC, smiled and said, “My goal, ever since I can remember, was to make a difference in the world and help others.” That simple but powerful mission to make a difference is what drives Geneveive every day as she works toward becoming a Certified Medical Assistant.

For Geneveive, returning to school after nearly eight years wasn’t easy, especially as a first-time mom to an energetic one-year-old. “Balancing mom duties and student duties wasn’t easy at first,” she shared. “But time management was key! I show up, get my work done, go home and be a mama, and when bedtime comes around, I’m studying for a few hours and prepping for the next day.”

Her story is one of dedication and determination, proof that with the right support and mindset, it’s never too late to chase your dreams.

When Geneveive talks about her experience in the classroom, her face lights up. “Picking out a favorite is super hard. Honestly, I just love being in class,” she said. “My teachers are amazing and keep me engaged. Learning new material is always exciting. They’re truly rock stars, and I couldn’t imagine doing this program without them.”

That support goes far beyond the classroom walls. Geneveive spends countless hours on campus studying, working on assignments, and connecting with her instructors. “My teachers are always there, welcoming, encouraging, and rooting for me,” she said. “Having someone constantly there mentoring you and motivating you because they honestly believe in you has made such a difference for me.”

At Carteret CC, it’s not just about earning a credential. It’s about becoming part of a community that believes in your success.

Coming from a family full of healthcare professionals, Geneveive’s biggest inspiration comes from her sister, a nurse serving in the Air Force. “When she received her notice of deployment, it encouraged me to make my final decision,” Geneveive explained. “My big sister is such an amazing person, and I hope one day I can be just as cool as she is.”

With graduation on the horizon, Geneveive is already planning her next steps. “After I complete the program, I’ll be taking my AMAA Certification. I’m moving to Raleigh and hoping to get a job with one of the hospital companies and work in a clinic while I continue my education.” Her goals are clear and full of purpose, and the drive she’s shown throughout her journey makes it certain she’ll achieve every one of them.

When asked what advice she’d give to someone considering the Medical Assisting Program at Carteret CC, Geneveive didn’t hesitate. “Do it,” she said. “Medical Assistants are in such high demand. The classes are fun and intriguing, and the outcome is so rewarding. It’s hard work, but you have all the resources you need to be successful and thrive right there guiding you the whole way.”

Even future healthcare heroes need time to recharge. After a long day of classes or clinicals, Geneveive likes to unwind by grabbing a snack, watching Netflix, or settling in with a good book. Those simple moments of calm help her reset before another busy day. And when she needs a little motivation, she turns up her favorite song, “It’s All Happening” by Saint Motel, a fitting anthem for someone who’s living proof that dreams really can happen.

For Geneveive Muehlenkamp, being part of the Carteret Community College Medical Assisting Program means more than learning clinical skills. It’s about finding purpose, confidence, and a sense of belonging. Her story is a reminder that compassion, hard work, and the right support system can open doors to a fulfilling career in healthcare.

If you’ve ever dreamed of helping others and making a difference, the Medical Assisting Program at Carteret Community College might just be where your journey begins, just like it did for Geneveive.

For more information about our Medical Assisting program please visit carteret.edu or contact Vonda Godette.