For Ashley Prepes, it was the love of her family that first led her to College of the Rockies’ Health Care Assistant program, but it was her deep passion for healthcare that inspired her to return for the Practical Nurse program.
“I always had a strong desire to care for my grandparents and family as they aged, but didn’t know where to start,” she said. “When I heard about the Health Care Assistant program at College of the Rockies and saw it was being offered in my hometown of Creston, I enrolled right away. The convenient location was a factor, but the positive feedback I heard about the College from others in Creston made it an easy choice.”
After a few years working as a Health Care Assistant, Ashley felt the need to further her skills and take her career to the next level. Returning to the College to pursue her Practical Nursing diploma was one of the best decisions she made, as it led her to a mentor who would help guide her every step of the way.
“The support I received throughout both programs was outstanding,” she shared. “There was always someone there when I needed help, and my instructors truly cared about my success. They went above and beyond to ensure I had everything I needed to thrive.”
This support was particularly crucial when Ashley faced a family emergency during her Practical Nurse program. Her instructors offered flexibility and understanding during that challenging time, ensuring she could continue her studies while managing personal responsibilities.
“I can honestly say that without their compassion and flexibility, I wouldn’t have been able to graduate. Thanks to their unwavering support, I am now a practicing LPN,” she said.
Today, Ashley is living her dream as a long-term care nurse with Interior Health, where she’s deeply committed to providing quality care to older adults. But she’s not stopping there – she plans to continue her education and, in the next few years hopes to qualify as an Operating Room LPN.
“The education I received at the College truly prepared me for the role I’m in now. It gave me a strong foundation and a clear understanding of what to expect,” she explained. “It also helped me develop leadership skills, an area where I’ve previously struggled. Thanks to my time at the College, I’m becoming a more confident leader every day.”
Reflecting on her time at College of the Rockies, Ashley has no hesitation in recommending it to others.
“The friendships I formed, the hands-on training, and the way the programs were structured made my journey so much more enriching,” she said. “The support I received throughout my studies was incredible, and it all led to a fulfilling career where I care for the older the older generation, something I am truly passionate about.”