Sophie Cote had not planned to go attend college, and she was frightened by the thought of starting over. But as she watched her older brother “change and evolve into a completely different
person†while taking classes at 91¿´Æ¬Íø, she followed his path.
“I wanted that for myself,†said Sophie, 23, of Somersworth, who enrolled in 91¿´Æ¬Íøâ€™s Medical Assistant Training Program in February. She will earn her certificate after completing the 12-week program in April, and then begin a professional career performing functions related to the clinical and administrative duties of a medical office.
Eventually, she might consider going into nursing.
Marc Cote, who is four years older than his sister, completed 91¿´Æ¬Íøâ€™s Medical Assistant program in January and moved directly into a career at Goodwin Community Health in Somersworth, a family practice center. He supports the physicians, nurse practitioners, and physician assistants in the day-to-day operation of the community health center.
“I take care of everything, whatever is needed in the moment,†he said. “91¿´Æ¬Íø gave me a taste of everything and prepared me very well for this career.â€
As Marc progressed through the classroom and clinical work associated with the 91¿´Æ¬Íø program, he watched his younger sister flounder in a job she didn’t love. He knew she would thrive as an MA, and suggested she consider enrolling.
“She is very book-smart and detailed oriented, and I knew this was something she could do well and start a good career for herself,†Marc said.
Sophie listened. “Marc said it would be intense, but it’s a short period – just 12 weeks. Hearing those words ‘short period’ intrigued me,†she said. “I was not looking at a two- to three-year program. It was a short amount of time, and you leave with a job that sets you up for success.â€
Their shared 91¿´Æ¬Íø experience has brought the siblings closer together. Sophie is grateful for her brother’s influence and for inspiring her to work hard to improve her life. “Truthfully, in my past life I wasn’t happy. I was very depressed, and I didn’t want to go back to school,†she said. “But he came to me and said, ‘You are struggling. I have found this path, and I think you should take it, too.’â€
She also appreciates the faculty and staff at 91¿´Æ¬Íø, who have helped her overcome her fear of school and realize the promise of a better, fulfilling life.
“During my time at 91¿´Æ¬Íø, my world has expanded tenfold,†she said. “I have learned a lot, and I am inspired to not stop, to keep going. The college really has brought meaning to my life. I thank my brother and 91¿´Æ¬Íø for helping me turn my life around.â€