Larose Elve
A medical office technology major at Cleveland State Community College, Larose Elve is already a licensed Certified Nurse Assistant (CNA) and works in home healthcare. She recently started her work-based learning internship at Kaful Family Practice in Cleveland. The work-based learning program gives students the opportunity for hands-on training in their career field, all while earning college credit.
Kaful Family Practice has been a part of the program for almost two years. Sandy Kirby, Career Services coordinator at Cleveland State, said, “These work-based learning opportunities are extremely beneficial to students by enhancing their resumes with relevant work experiences, skills and qualifications.
In addition to on-the-job training, work-based learning courses assist students in creating effective resume portfolios, practicing interviewing skills and learning how to differentiate themselves from other candidates in the workforce.”
Due to health issues, Ms. Elve found it difficult to keep up with the physical demands of working in a nursing home, so she returned to school. She said, “I love what I do; I don’t do it for the money. It gives me a sense of purpose. My patients need someone; they need a helping hand and a shoulder. It was my calling.”
The work-based learning program is providing the experience Ms. Elve needs to work in a medical office after graduation. “Larose has proven to be a hard-working student, determined to gain the experiences she needs to achieve her career goal in the medical office,” said Ms. Kirby. “It has been a pleasure getting to know Larose this semester and seeing her accomplish new challenges by taking on an internship, volunteering, maintaining college coursework and supporting her family.”
“Teachers really care for their students here,” said Ms. Elve. “When I first started, I had a lack of confidence; I thought ‘I cannot do this.’ My teacher told me ‘You can do this, and you are doing it.’ And now, I’m doing it. I am thankful for God, my family and my teachers for their encouragement.”
Originally from Haiti, Ms. Elve and her husband have three children. She plans to graduate in May 2024 and work in a medical office.
For more information about the Work-Based Learning program at Cleveland State contact Ms. Kirby at skirby03@clevelandstatecc.edu or 423-473-2288.