After being forced to leave Afghanistan when the Taliban banned secondary education for girls, Hangama Amirpoor found a new opportunity at Modesto Junior College (MJC). Amirpoor, who dreams of becoming a doctor, enrolled in a course designed specifically for English learners interested in healthcare careers.
The new class at MJC prepares students by teaching medical terminology before they begin the nursing assistant program. The course includes 15 students who primarily speak Spanish, Arabic, or Dari as their first language. Students work together on vocabulary exercises, role-play patient interactions, and practice pronunciation. They also learn how to use supportive language with patients and participate in activities such as touring memory care facilities.
“Medical terminology is basically an additional language,” said Ruth Luman, the course instructor. “It’s like learning two more at the same time.”
In addition to this class, students take another focused on workplace English tailored for nursing communication needs. Luman observed that while many students understand textbook terms, informal conversations remain challenging due to confidence issues.
Luman brings experience in both English as a second language instruction and hospital volunteering. Her husband, a physician, plans to visit the class during its final session to answer student questions.
Tonya Robinson, director of MJC’s nursing assistant program, emphasized that early exposure to medical terminology gives these students a valuable advantage: “It’s really going to help them succeed,” Robinson said.
Following this preparatory phase, students move into an eight-week certified nursing assistant (CNA) training program involving 60 hours of theory and 100 hours of clinical practice in local healthcare facilities. Of the approximately 95–105 students expected next semester in CNA training, about 15 are English learners. All must pass California’s state certification exam—which is conducted in English—to qualify as CNAs.
Some participants plan alternative paths such as becoming medical translators or assistants; others want skills to better support their families or navigate healthcare systems.
Shirley Miranda Brenes, dean of language arts and education at MJC, called this initiative one of community colleges’ best examples: “Learning anything new in another language is hard… it’s a whole other level,” Brenes said.
She noted that many newcomers face obstacles beyond academics—including housing and financial pressures—that can discourage pursuit of demanding fields like nursing. Still, she sees increased confidence among her students as they progress through programs like these.
Robinson added that although English learners often need extra tutoring or support due to language barriers—especially balancing studies with work or family responsibilities—enrollment remains strong thanks to high demand for CNAs locally. Partnerships with area facilities frequently lead directly to employment opportunities after graduation.
Maria Quijano enrolled hoping eventually to become a registered nurse but faces challenges juggling classes with family duties and business obligations at home. “This is my time to learn English and improve myself,” she said.
Funding for the program comes from Adult Education Office funds distributed via the Stanislaus Mother Lode Consortium through the Yosemite Community College Chancellor’s Office. Liliana Pulido manages grant administration for career programs at MJC; she noted many refugee students arrive with prior medical experience but need U.S.-based credentials: “I hope we get more funding because so many students are interested… we just want to keep this program alive,” Pulido said.
MJC has also piloted similar initiatives for child care workers using grant funding and may expand into culinary arts if resources allow—a process currently hindered by lack of funds according to Pulido.
According to state data cited by college officials, nearly 60% of California counties report shortages of nurses; Stanislaus County faces an estimated gap of -5.3%. Robinson stated that demand for CNAs is especially high locally—with robust enrollment each semester—and expects continued growth as population ages: “I want to retire myself… I need to raise up nurses to take my place,” she remarked.
