Powered by PATH
When Lema Sharify enrolled at Oakton, she had one clear goal: to become a nurse. She started in Oakton’s English as a Second Language (ESL) program, quickly gaining confidence in her communication skills. That success opened the door to Oakton’s Basic Nurse Assistant Training (BNAT) program. Thanks to the support of the Pipeline for the Advancement of the Healthcare Workforce Grant (PATH) Lema was able to focus on her studies, secure her first job in health care, and continue building toward a long-term career in nursing.
A First Step into Health Care
Lema chose Oakton’s BNAT program to lay a strong foundation for her future. “Becoming a CNA allows me to help people and build my foundation for my future nursing career,” she said. “I love helping people feel safe, cared for, and respected—especially when they depend on me.”
Lema’s desire to become a nurse is personal. “When I lost my mom, it showed me how important caregivers are,” she said. “That inspired me to help others. During clinicals with residents in my program, it confirmed this is the right path for me.”
Support That Makes a Difference
In the BNAT program, Lema received the PATH Grant, which Oakton offers through a state-funded initiative to expand access to health care education. The grant covers costs like tuition, books and testing fees. It also provides personalized support from a dedicated PATH coach who connects students with services like time management coaching, transportation assistance, food and housing resources and more.
“The grant reduced my financial stress and helped me stay focused and motivated,” Lema said. When she needed child care for her youngest son, Lema’s PATH coach connected her to community resources. And she also received help applying for the Oakton Educational Foundation's Student Success Scholarship, which provided additional funds to help her work toward her nursing degree.
Ready for What’s Next
Hands-on training in the BNAT program prepared Lema to provide real care in her first job as a certified nursing assistant at a rehabilitation center in Evanston. “My instructors were very supportive and knowledgeable. They showed us how to connect classroom lessons to real-world experience and helped me build my confidence.”
Now, she’s working part-time as a CNA, raising three children, and continuing her education at Oakton to complete her nursing prerequisites. “Becoming a nurse is my dream,” she said. “If I can do it, anyone can take the first step.” And she’s already inspiring the next generation. “My daughter is so proud of me. She told me, ‘Mommy, I want to be a nurse too.’”