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Pathways to Recovery - Opioid Grant

Laura Almonte Ramos

From Language Barriers to a Healthcare Career

Bergen County

Pathways to Recovery program logo New Jersey Department of Labor and Workforce Development logo
Laura Almonte Ramos presenting a nursing lesson during CNA training
Laura Almonte Ramos during her CNA training.

Laura Almonte Ramos came to the United States from the Dominican Republic determined to build a better life for herself and her family. She arrived without English-language skills or previous work experience, but she refused to let either challenge define her future.

After settling in New Jersey, Laura focused on adapting to a new culture and learning to communicate with confidence. She enrolled in English classes and devoted countless hours to studying and practicing her new language.

Each new skill brought Laura one step closer to the healthcare career she had envisioned.

Building Her English Skills

Laura understood that overcoming the language barrier would be essential to reaching her goals. Her persistence in the classroom strengthened her communication skills and prepared her to take on the demands of professional training.

Pursuing a Healthcare Career

Inspired by a passion for helping others, Laura set her sights on becoming a Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA). Through the Pathways to Recovery - Opioid Grant, she found a pathway into CNA training and worked tirelessly to master the knowledge and practical skills required to care for patients.

Earning Her CNA Certification

Laura’s hard work paid off when she successfully passed the New Jersey state certification exam. Becoming a certified CNA marked the beginning of a new chapter and opened the door to the promising healthcare career she had worked so hard to achieve.

Providing Exceptional Care

Today, Laura is employed as a CNA at Hudson View Rehab Center. Her compassion, perseverance, and dedication have made her a valued member of the team, where she continues to provide exceptional care to her patients. Her journey from a new arrival with no English or work experience to a certified healthcare professional shows what determination and opportunity can make possible.