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Marvis Bellagwa, CNA, LVN

“As a certified nurse’s aide (CNA), I was looking to further my education in a way that would help me financially. The Vocational Nursing program came to mind. ‘It’s just 12 months,’ I told myself. 

“Coming into the program, I didn’t know what to expect. The best part is when you meet people you’ve never seen before, and everyone works together for a common goal. The instructors are so helpful and make you feel welcome.

“My education has helped me so much. It is tough, but it gives you the right training and the confidence to go into the world. I learned to never quit. If it gets too tough, ask questions, seek help and talk to your instructors. 

“I definitely recommend this program to others. It’s not just about the Vocational Nursing certificate; this program prepares you for the world. I feel so proud to say ‘Dallas College’ when people ask me which school I attended.

“There are no awards in my job, but I will say I get a personal sense of accomplishment for the work I do. When I get a smile from a resident, then I know I am doing a good job.” 

Marvis Bellagwa attended Dallas College and took several online courses before earning her Vocational Nursing certificate. In her job at Golden Acres: The Dallas Home for Jewish Aged, she assists in assessing, developing, implementing and evaluating direct care of residents, helping to maintain the quality of service that is in accordance with local, state and federal regulations. She also helps to prepare, administer and document doctor-prescribed medications and treatments. She can initiate and conduct emergency measures required to stabilize a resident’s condition. Marvis plans to complete the LVN to RN “Bridge” program to become a registered nurse.


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Myriah Stevens

Myriah Stevens

Radiologic Technologist Parkland Memorial Hospital of Dallas
“When a patient who is in pain, upset or nervous tells you that you made them feel better or just simply tells you 'thank you' with a smile, it makes your hard work worth it. That is the reason I am in this field, and that is what will keep me in it forever.”
Radiologic Sciences
Kristy Sweeney

Kristy Sweeney, RDCS

Registered Diagnostic Cardiac Sonographer, UT Southwestern University Hospitals, and Adjunct Faculty, El Centro Diagnostic Medical Sonography
“My experience at El Centro was wonderful. The program included online classes plus clinicals three or four days a week. We had the flexibility to do our homework at our own convenience, either doing a little every night or doing it all over the weekend, whatever worked best for us.”
Diagnostic Medical Sonography
Sarah Taylor

Sarah Taylor, A.A.S. (ADN), RN

Registered Nurse, Adult Oncology Unit Medical City Dallas
“The best part of my education was the nursing staff. They are just so caring and supportive. They’re there to make sure you get all of the help and support you need. The most important thing I learned is that you’re never too old to set a goal and achieve it.”
Nursing
Shawn Terry

Shawn Terry, B.A., RRT, RCP

Respiratory Care Practitioner, Parkland Health and Hospital System Adjunct Faculty, El Centro Respiratory Care Program
“Respiratory therapists are not just technicians trained to deliver treatments and therapies with different types of equipment. We have to truly comprehend a wide range of topics and how they relate to a patient’s condition.”
Respiratory Care Program
Marvis Bellagwa
Marvis Bellagwa, CNA, LVN
Licensed Vocational Nurse Golden Acres: The Dallas Home for Jewish Aged
Nursing
School of Health Sciences
Updated September 16, 2025