From Counselor to Instructor: Building Resilience and Connection at UMA

After retiring from a 25-year career as a high school counselor, I knew I still wanted to make a difference—and teaching at Ultimate Medical Academy gave me that opportunity. I’ve been with UMA for three years, starting as an adjunct and recently transitioning into a full-time role in the Health & Human Services Department. I teach courses like Human Behavior in the Social Environment and Social Welfare, all online from my home in Zephyrhills, Florida. The flexibility of remote teaching allows me to balance my personal life while staying deeply connected to my students’ academic journeys. I begin each day early, checking messages, grading assignments, and reaching out to students who may need extra support.

What keeps me motivated is knowing I’m helping students pursue their dreams in healthcare. One moment that truly stayed with me was hearing from a student who, despite being homeless, excelled in his course. His resilience was incredibly moving and reminded me why I do this work. UMA stands out because of its commitment to diversity, professional development, and student success. I feel supported by my program leader and empowered to uplift my students. UMA fosters a strong sense of community by investing in its instructors—because when we’re supported, we can better support and inspire our students.