Finding the Right Path

Callie Hartley Discovers a Passion for Patient Care Through Carteret’s CNA Apprenticeship

Hands-on experience and strong support help one student turn uncertainty into a meaningful healthcare career

Not every career path is a straight line. For Callie Hartley, it took exploring a different direction first to realize where she truly belonged.

Originally from Raleigh, North Carolina, Hartley moved to Carteret County shortly after graduating high school in 2025. She initially pursued cosmetology, but quickly realized it was not the right fit. That decision led her to reevaluate her goals and ultimately discover a passion for healthcare.

“My entire family works in healthcare, and I have always had a heart for helping others,” Hartley said. “I truly love caring for people, especially my patients, and I would not trade this career for anything.”

Today, she is a CNA I and II apprentice through Carteret Community College, gaining real-world experience at Carteret Health Care while continuing her education.

A Fast Track to a New Future

Hartley learned about the CNA Apprenticeship program through the College’s CNA Program Chair, who guided her through every step of the process. From application to acceptance, she found support that made the transition into healthcare both smooth and encouraging.

One of the program’s most appealing aspects was its accelerated format.

“I was able to complete my CNA in less than six weeks while gaining real-world experience at the same time,” she said.

Through the partnership between Carteret Community College and Carteret Health Care, Hartley has been able to work, learn, and grow simultaneously. For her, the opportunity has been life changing.

“This opportunity means everything to me. It allowed me to work, gain hands-on experience, and complete my education all at once,” she shared.

Confidence Through Experience

Like many students entering the healthcare field, Hartley initially faced moments of uncertainty. One of her early concerns was navigating documentation and charting in a fast-paced clinical environment.

“At first, I was nervous about documentation and charting, but I quickly became comfortable, and that made a big difference in my confidence and daily performance,” she said.

Her daily responsibilities now include assisting patients, monitoring vital signs, checking blood sugar levels, and supporting overall patient care. As she advances into CNA II, she has also taken on more complex, nursing-related tasks.

Through repetition and real-world exposure, her confidence has continued to grow.

“Gaining experience every day has helped me become more confident and comfortable in my role,” Hartley said.

The Power of Human Connection

For Hartley, the most meaningful part of her experience goes beyond clinical skills. It lies in the relationships she builds with patients and their families.

“My patients feel like family to me. I often think about them after my shift and hope they are doing well,” she said.

One moment in particular stands out as a defining experience in her journey.

“I spent time sitting with a patient’s wife, playing cards with her for hours, and later praying with her during a very emotional moment,” Hartley shared. “That experience confirmed for me that healthcare is where I belong.”

These experiences have deepened her understanding of compassion and the importance of emotional support in patient care.

“Compassion and patient care go hand in hand. It is about recognizing a patient’s needs and responding with empathy, respect, and kindness,” she explained.

Support That Strengthens Success

Hartley credits both Carteret Community College and Carteret Health Care for providing a strong foundation for her success.

Her instructors have played a key role in her development, offering guidance, encouragement, and a supportive learning environment.

“They have been incredibly supportive, approachable, and always willing to help or offer advice,” she said.

Her employer has also provided meaningful support throughout her apprenticeship, including regular check-ins and financial assistance during training.

This level of collaboration between education and healthcare partners highlights the strength of the apprenticeship model, giving students the tools and support needed to succeed.

Growing Into the Future

Through the program, Hartley has not only developed technical skills but has also grown personally and professionally.

“It has helped me become more compassionate and more confident while maintaining professionalism,” she said.

She is proud of the progress she has made in a short amount of time and is excited about what lies ahead.

After completing her CNA certification, Hartley plans to continue advancing her skills as a CNA II and pursue phlebotomy training. She also intends to remain with Carteret Health Care as she continues exploring long-term career options, including an interest in dermatology.

Encouraging Others to Take the Leap

Hartley encourages others who may be considering a career in healthcare to take the chance and explore the possibilities.

“Go for it and give it your all. It is a career you will either love or not, but it opens so many doors,” she said.

She also emphasized the value of the apprenticeship experience.

“Even though it is fast-paced, the hands-on experience makes it completely worth it,” she added.

For Hartley, what began as uncertainty has transformed into clarity, purpose, and a strong start in the healthcare field. Through Carteret Community College’s CNA Apprenticeship program, she has found not only a career path, but a calling.

For more information about our Apprenticeship programs visit our website at carteret.edu or contact Sharon King at 252.222.7971 | [email protected]