After earning a bachelor’s degree, Davonne Walker worked various jobs, eventually becoming an administrative assistant with Luminis Health.
Though happy working in primary care, orthopedic and then dermatology offices, Walker felt like she could do more. “I wanted to help people.”
A former dual-enrolled high school student, she was aware of the college’s healthcare reputation. Intimidated by the idea of a career switch but looking for a change, she found AACC’s Medical Assistant program to be an accessible move in the right direction.
Because the program meets urgent workforce needs, financial incentives were strong. “It was crazy, all the resources they have,” Walker said, noting tuition breaks and vouchers for certification tests. Some of her classmates also were taking advantage of programs providing resources for groceries and child care.
She expected her peers would be mostly right out of high school, but was surprised. “My class was so diverse that you could just see so many different paths, so many different goals.”
Walker said she would encourage anyone thinking of medical assisting to speak with an academic advisor as a first step. “They really help you plan everything to fit your life and goals. It lets you know what's possible, so you don't feel overwhelmed.”
Every step of the way, Walker said she felt supported by AACC staff and faculty. “They really want you to succeed, and it seems like they want you to graduate and then go out into the work field and be the best you can be. … There was always someone who genuinely cared and helped.”
Walker, who started the program March 2024 and graduated in July 2025, is now working in health information management. “I really took everything that I learned and just transferred over, and it's just working out really well.”