i'll try to make this short: i'm going to school to become a medical assistant next month. i have a choice to either do the 9 month diploma program or the 2 yr. associate's degree program. my friend recently got her diploma and has a good job with a medical clinic. which program should i complete? my goal in life is to just work a couple years and then become a stay-at-home mom. i feel like 2 yrs is a long time and i'm not getting any younger. would i be able to get a decent job if i just went for the diploma? thanks to everyone in advance.
Uniq_The_Geek answered Saturday May 14 2011, 10:33 am: Hello! Im currently going to school for my associate's in medical assisting, though right across from the strert is a program that is muuuuch cheaper and shorter. To be honest, here are the reasons why i chose to take classes at college instead of a diploma:
-the professors are RN's and very experienced
-i get lecture courses and labs where i can practice in students and dummies with equipment used in hospitals, clinics, etc.
-some employers like to see what courses you took in order to obtain your higher education knowledge and how you did in class.
-my school provides a 3 month externship where you use your knowledge on real patients in a real workplace. Paid.
I live in nyc, so i don't know if its different in other states, but iknow many employers here require you to be a certified mrdical assistant, meaning you need to sit for the exam. If im not mistaken, only people who have attended an accredited collrge or program can sit for this exam. You really should do your research before choosing, because money and your future are two things are extremrly important. Ask around your doctor's office, speak on forums.... You will really benefit from it... Especially if you network because you might find people who are experienced in your area and can ease you into the healthcare field! Good luck and im sorry i couldnt provide more info, im on my phone which explains my typos lol.
christymichellejones answered Thursday May 12 2011, 7:38 pm: I didn't go to college, but my answer is, do what will BEST affect you and your future. If that is working harder to get the 2yr associates then do it! Do everything you can, you have a great opratunity so take advantage of that, i would. Working hard WILL pay off in the long run. Don't EVER take the easy way out. I'm not saying that's what your trying to do, but that's what i did. I also know that sometimes circumstances in our lives change the path we are trying to go down. Just do what is best for you. Your friend has a great job at a medical clinic off doing the 9 month diploma? But that doesn't mean the same will happen for you, you know? I suggest that you take the time to really think this over before you jump into it. You don't want to make the wrong choice and it affect the rest of your career. Good luck with your future!!! -Christy [ christymichellejones's advice column | Ask christymichellejones A Question ]
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