Articles

Coleman Colleague: Valerie Corpening, Class of 2017

Jan 6, 2025

From medical assistant to nurse to adjunct professor: Meet Valerie Corpening, Medical Assistant, Class of 2017!


Name
Valerie Corpening

City/Town of Residence
Fresno, Texas

Hometown & High School
Jacksonville, Fla., Robert E. Lee High School

Degree or Certificate Program

• Bachelor in American Ethnic Studies (with Biology minor) - Class of 2015
• Associate of Applied Science: Medical Assistant – Class of 2017
• Master of Public Administration (Healthcare Management emphasis), Grand Canyon University - Class of 2019
• Bachelor of Science in Nursing, Chamberlain University - Class of 2022

Year of Graduation

• Class of 2015, 2017, 2019 & 2022

Title & Place of Employment

• ER Nurse: HCA
• Pediatric psych and behavioral health nurse:  Nexus Health System
• Adjunct Professor: HCC Coleman College Medical Assistant Program

Why did you choose HCC Coleman College?
I did my research, and HCC Coleman College had one of the best medical assistant programs in Houston. I liked that the program was extensive in study, with a reputation that preceeded them when asking other medical assistants about the program.

Why did you choose your program of study?
I knew the Medical Assistant program would allow me to help others in healthcare. I tell people all the time: I would not be the nurse that I am had I not been a medical assistant first. It was the foundation for me to become a nurse.

I knew more than my peers when it came to skills, and it made me so proud. I still call myself a medical assistant first.

What did you like best about your college experience?
I liked how Coleman hosted other colleges on campuses so I could pursue advanced degrees. I actually got my master's degree from one of the colleges that they hosted! I also liked the additional resources offered, such as helping with job placement and tutoring. 

What did you like best about your program of study?
The help, drive, and push our professors gave us was wonderful. I also loved the passion and knowledge I gained in the Medical Assistant program.

When you were tired, what motivated you to push forward?
I wanted more and better for myself. My children and my classmate Benita also motivated me along the way.

What advice can you offer to help other students succeed?
Ask for help! I cannot say this enough! Utilize existing resources at the college, such as tutoring. Your professors are there to assist you! I promise they will be your biggest key to success.

How did your education help or improve your life?
Thanks to my education, my family’s quality of life is amazing. I was able to move my children into a 5-bedroom home in a better neighborhood, and it allowed them to be included in things I would not been able to do for them had I not earned my medical assistant certificate.

It all started at Coleman! I was able to gain so much experience, network and meet amazing people.