Student Story: Shynice

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When Shynice was 23, she lost both of her parents. Soon, she was struggling as a single mother to her son Jaheel and surviving on public assistance. Shynice dreamed of supporting her family by working in the medical field like her mother, but without a degree, training, or guidance, she didn’t know where to start.

What Shynice did have was a determination to build a better life. She happened upon information about STRIVE’s medical billing program and started the program with a focus on healthcare. She gained the skills she needed but more importantly, she found a support system and learned the importance of a positive attitude, taking initiative, and believing in herself.

When Shynice graduated, she put what she learned to work right away. STRIVE helped her get an internship with Modern MD Urgent Care, which turned into a full-time job and a promotion. She has returned to STRIVE to receive 10 professional certifications to advance her career and started a college fund for Jaheel. One day she hopes to start her own medical billing company.

“When I came to STRIVE, I was like a caterpillar,” she says. “When I left I had wings, and I’ve been flying ever since.”