Students wanting to help others enrolling in HCTC program

Tonya Olden (on left) and Mary Moss enrolled in a program at Hazard Community and Technical College because they want to help others. Those interested in the Human Services program or Enhanced Nurse Aide program can call (606) 487-3102.


The great desire to help people is attracting students to the Human Services program at Hazard Community and Technical College. Mary Moss and Tonya Olden are just two of the students enrolled in the program who enrolled in Human Services for that very reason.

Mary Moss said she plans to work with Hospice; she already is a certified nurse aide. She is working toward her associate degree and is enjoying the classes, especially those that cover the elderly, marriage and family. Moss has worked for a coal mine until it closed, as well as for DJ Plastics and Perry Manufacturing, but she believes work in Human Services will be the most fulfilling for her.

As a mother of four children, five grandchildren, and four great grandchildren, she s learned other skills that will help her but she still gives high praise for the HCTC classes. The classes are very interesting; I enjoy hearing the guest speakers.

Cindy Plummer, Human Services Program Coordinator, noted, Students enrolled in the Human Services or Enhanced Nurse Aide program are dedicated to helping others and are some of the best students found anywhere. Employers would be honored to hire any of our graduates, because each student spends several hours in a clinical setting to prepare for their work, Mrs. Plummer said. Students are hired in mental health facilities, supportive daily living programs, service agencies, hospitals, nursing homes and even schools. The employment opportunities are endless and these graduates can focus on people with any problem found in any age group, noted Mrs. Plummer.

Tonya Olden graduated in May with an Enhanced Nurse Aide program certificate and plans to go into the Licensed Practical Nursing program because it s been her lifetime dream to become a nurse. I care about people. I like to help people, especially when they are sick.

Olden praises the classroom experience but she really values going to the nursing homes for her clinical training. I got to spend time with the patients and that touched my heart. I like to be around older people because I learn from them.

Olden, at age 38, said her career choice creates an entirely new future for her, and she encourages other to enroll.

The Enhanced Nurse Aide certificate can be completed in just one semester and financial aid or scholarships are available for students who qualify.

Those interested in enrolling can call (606) 487-3102.