From Bedside to Classroom – How Raquel Is Inspiring the Next Generation of Caregivers
After more than two decades at the bedside, Raquel never imagined her next chapter in nursing would take place in a classroom. But when she saw a post from Legacy Medical Academy looking for CNA instructors, something stirred.
“I was in a season where I kept telling myself, ‘Let’s come out of our comfort zone. Let’s try something new,’” she said. “Teaching was always the one thing I said I’d never do. And then Legacy came along.”
Today, Raquel splits her time between Washington High School and Goshen College’s CNA programs, turning 23 years of hands-on nursing experience into meaningful lessons for the next generation of caregivers.
A Career Built on Compassion and Adaptability
Raquel’s journey spans nearly every corner of the nursing field: Medical-surgical and cardiac units, emergency care, home health, triage, and even correctional nursing. She’s cared for patients in hospitals, in their homes, and everywhere in between.
That breadth of experience gives her countless real-world stories to share with her students. “Every day, I can give them examples from my career that help the material come alive,” she said. “They can see what it really means to care for someone with skill, patience, and respect.”
She still balances teaching with part-time roles—house calls, reviewing care plans, and non-emergency medical transport, which keep her connected to the realities her students will soon face.
Teaching Students to See Themselves as Professionals
Transitioning from working with patients to teaching was an adjustment, but one that’s filled Raquel with purpose. “Most of my career, I worked strictly with adults,” she said. “Now I’m working with juniors and seniors and college students who are just beginning to see what’s possible in health care.”
“Many come in thinking CNAs only work in nursing homes,” Raquel explains. “I love showing them the bigger picture. Hospitals, specialty units, and career paths begin with this one credential. You can take this certification and go almost anywhere; even if you never work a shift as a CNA, you’re graduating with something real and valuable on your résumé.”
Redefining Professionalism
Raquel is quick to remind students that professionalism isn’t a title, degree, or classification, but a behavior. For CNAs, the work is deeply human, and foundational to the healthcare system. They are the “eyes and ears” for nurses, the hands that provide comfort, and the bridge between patient and provider. “Professionalism is how you show up,” she said. “It’s how you speak, how you treat people, and how you take pride in your work.”
In her classroom, that translates to small but powerful habits: Showing up on time, dressing properly, maintaining composure, and treating every patient with dignity.
Making Learning Fun—and Lasting
Raquel believes learning sticks when it’s interactive and engaging. She fills her classroom with stories, laughter, and creative review sessions—everything from quiz games to “Family Feud”-style competitions before state exams.
“Real scenarios help students connect the dots,” she explained. “If they can picture the patient and understand why a skill matters, they’ll never forget it.”
Training the Future of Health Care
When asked what makes a great CNA student, Raquel doesn’t hesitate: Adaptability, teamwork, and compassion.
“Health care changes every day, and you have to be willing to grow with it,” she said. “You won’t always get praise, but if you have the heart to help people, this is where you’re meant to be.”
For more information about Legacy Medical Academy or to inquire about their programs, visit www.legacymedicalacademy.com.
