Rooted in Compassion

Miranda Goodwin Builds Her Future Through Carteret’s CNA Apprenticeship

Local student balances family, career, and education while making a difference in patient care

For Miranda Goodwin, a career in healthcare is more than a professional goal. It is a calling shaped by family, compassion, and a desire to care for others.

A native of Cedar Island now living in Davis with her two children and fiancé, Goodwin is currently completing her training as a CNA I and II apprentice through Carteret Community College in partnership with Carteret Health Care. Her journey into healthcare began close to home.

“My mom inspired me. She has been a CNA for as long as I can remember,” Goodwin said.

That inspiration led her to Carteret Community College, where she had already heard strong praise about the CNA program. What she found was more than just training. It was an opportunity to step directly into the field while building her skills.

Learning Through Experience

Goodwin’s path into the apprenticeship program started with a simple expression of interest, but quickly turned into a life changing opportunity.

“It was a great opportunity to gain hands-on experience at the hospital while taking my classes,” she said.

Through the partnership between Carteret Community College and Carteret Health Care, students like Goodwin are able to learn in the classroom while actively working in a real healthcare environment. For her, that combination has made all the difference.

Working in the hospital while training has been both challenging and rewarding.

“It is hands-on, fast-paced, and sometimes overwhelming, but also very rewarding,” she shared.

Her daily responsibilities include checking vital signs, assisting with mobility, and supporting patients with essential care. These experiences have strengthened not only her technical skills but also her confidence.

“I feel more confident at work because I have the proper skills I learned during the apprenticeship,” she said.

The Heart of Patient Care

While Goodwin has developed a strong foundation in clinical skills, it is the human connection that stands out most in her experience.

“My favorite part of the program has been caring for patients and hearing their life stories,” she said.

She approaches every patient with empathy and respect, treating them as she would her own family.

“I treat each patient like they are my own family,” she said.

Through her work, she has gained a deeper understanding of what compassionate care truly means.

“Compassion is just as important as clinical skills. It means taking the time to understand how a patient feels, not just focusing on the task,” she explained.

Moments of connection with patients have reinforced her passion for the field. One interaction in particular has stayed with her.

“A patient once told me I was a sweet soul and wished there were more CNAs like me,” she said.

Support, Growth, and Opportunity

Goodwin credits her success to the strong support system provided by both her instructors and her employer. At Carteret Community College, faculty members have helped her build confidence and prepare for real world responsibilities.

“My instructors have been fantastic in preparing me to be the best CNA I can be,” she said.

She also highlighted the encouragement she has received from her workplace.

“They regularly check in to see if I need anything,” she said.

That support has helped her overcome initial challenges, including the anxiety she felt when first starting in a hospital setting.

“I was nervous at first, but I overcame that anxiety and now I love my job,” Goodwin said.

Balancing school, work, and family life has been no small accomplishment, and it is something she is especially proud of.

“I am proud of maintaining good grades and perfect attendance while raising two kids,” she said.

Building a Career Close to Home

Through the apprenticeship program, Goodwin has already secured a position with Carteret Health Care, giving her a strong start in the field before even completing her certification.

Looking ahead, she plans to continue working in healthcare and exploring opportunities to grow within the field.

“I plan to keep working at Carteret Health Care and continue building my career,” she said.

Her long term goals include gaining experience in both hospital and long-term care settings, allowing her to expand her skills and impact even more patients.

A Message to Future Students

Goodwin encourages others to consider a career as a CNA and to take advantage of apprenticeship opportunities.

“It is a hard job, but it is the most rewarding,” she said.

She also emphasized the value of the program itself.

“It is a great program with so many resources available to help you succeed,” she added.

For Goodwin, the experience has been more than just training. It has been a chance to grow personally, support her family, and make a difference in her community.

“I was blessed to be part of this program. It has given me so many opportunities and valuable skills,” she said.

Through stories like hers, Carteret Community College continues to demonstrate how apprenticeship programs create real pathways to success, empowering students to build meaningful careers while serving the needs of their communities.

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