Ms. Ortiz enrolled in New Mexico Workforce Connection’s Tuition Assistance program in March 2019 while working to become a nurse. The Tuition Assistance program provide Ms. Ortiz with $3,200 in assistance for tuition and testing fees.
Here is her testimonial...
"The WIOA (Tuition Assistance program) has helped me in my nursing school journey be successful. I was working three jobs in my last semester which was definitely more than what should be on a student’s full-time plate, but I was already thinking ahead with all the expenses to come once I graduated. I had to pay for study material, my NCLEX, fingerprints, background checks, as well as a fee for my actual license. COVID-19 had affected two of my jobs, and just like many, I lost them unexpectedly. My goal was to finish nursing school without anything else on my mind but that quickly changed. I was living on my own and providing for myself. I knew that I had to find more work. I reached out for assistance and the WIOA (Tuition Assistance program) did just that. I was able to get help financially at the beginning of my nursing school experience as well as getting help with my fingerprint and NCLEX costs. I am so incredibly thankful for this program as it allowed me to focus on my studies without the burden of thinking how I was going to pay for my boards. I passed my NCLEX on the first round and I am officially now, Emily Ortiz RN, BSN. I have accepted my dream job as a Neonatal Intensive Care Unit (NICU) Nurse at Memorial Medical Center in Las Cruces. I started as a Graduate Nurse in January and transitioned to a RN after passing my test on February 22nd. My pay rate fluctuates as times and days can increase pay. It ranges from $29-$36/hr. that I can make during a shift. Again, I am so thankful and appreciative of WIOA and appreciate all the amazing people that have helped me there to achieve my goal."
Learn more about the WIOA Tuition Assistance program from New Mexico Workforce Connection: www.EmployNM.com/tuition-assistance
To connect with a New Mexico Workforce Connection professional about the Tuition Assistance program, email training@employnm.com.
WIOA Title I-financially assisted programs and activities are an Equal Opportunity Employer/Program. Auxiliary aids and services are available upon request to individuals with disabilities. Relay New Mexico: 711 (Voice) or 1-800-659-8331 (TTY). Funded by the U.S. Department of Labor.