Through the support of community programs like the University of Utah’s Neighborhood Partners and Proxima, Jasmine Montoya has achieved her CNA certification and is now pursuing her dream of becoming a nurse to serve and uplift the community that shaped her.
For Jasmine Consuelo Montoya, health care is a calling deeply rooted in her love for her community. As a longtime resident of Salt Lake County’s westside, Jasmine has always been passionate about serving the people around her. Now, as she embarks on her journey to becoming a nurse, she hopes to bring compassionate, culturally competent care to the upcoming University of Utah Health West Valley Hospital. Her story is one of determination, community support, and an unwavering commitment to giving back.
Jasmine’s connection to the westside of Salt Lake County runs deep. She fondly recalls attending local community events, where families gathered for free health services, vaccines, and support programs. These experiences fostered her appreciation for the resources that bring people together and make health care more accessible. “I love this community,” Jasmine says. “The people, the events, the support we have for each other—this is home.”
Her upbringing instilled in her a desire to make a difference. Seeing firsthand how health care professionals could impact lives, she knew she wanted to be part of that system—helping others, especially those from underserved populations. But her path to nursing wouldn’t be a straight line; instead, it was shaped by perseverance, hard work, and a network of support.
From Passion to Profession: Education and Career Development
Jasmine’s journey into health care began with the University of Utah’s Neighborhood Partners (UNP), an organization dedicated to bridging education and career opportunities for westside residents. Through UNP, she learned about Proxima, an education pathways program that supports students pursuing careers in health care and other fields.
With the program’s guidance, she enrolled in Salt Lake Community College’s technical program and completed her Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA) certification. This milestone marked a crucial step toward her goal of becoming a nurse. Proxima provided resources that eased her transition back into school, including flexible class schedules and even a laptop to assist with her studies. Balancing school, work, and personal responsibilities was no easy feat, but Jasmine remained committed. She completed a 24-hour CNA practicum, gaining hands-on experience in patient care. This real-world exposure solidified her passion for health care and reaffirmed her decision to continue her education.
“The program was a game-changer,” she says. “Not just because of the resources but because of the people. They helped me with my resumé, prepared me for interviews, and guided me toward the next steps in my career.”
With the support of mentors and the resources provided by Proxima, Jasmine’s next step is pursuing nursing school through the University of Utah. With her CNA certification as a foundation, she plans to continue her education and obtain her Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN). The University of Utah’s nursing program offers her the opportunity to advance her skills while staying connected to her community. Jasmine is particularly excited about the program’s focus on community health and patient-centered care, which aligns with her mission to serve the West Valley population. Now a certified CNA, Jasmine is actively applying for positions at University of Utah Hospital and Huntsman Cancer Institute, gaining experience before taking the next step toward nursing school. Her ultimate dream is to work at the new West Valley Hospital, where she can serve the very community that raised her.
“I want to work in West Valley because I understand the people here,” Jasmine says. “I know their experiences, their culture, and their struggles. Health care isn’t just about treating illnesses; it’s about understanding patients and meeting them where they are.” Her goal is to become a registered nurse, with aspirations of specializing in pediatrics or midwifery. She believes that having health care providers who share backgrounds and experiences with their patients fosters trust and improves patient outcomes.
“When people see someone who looks like them, speaks their language, and understands their culture, they feel more comfortable seeking care,” she says. “I want to be that person for my community.”
A Community’s Investment in the Future
Jasmine’s journey is a testament to the power of community-driven education pathway initiatives. By providing mentorship, financial support, and educational resources, these programs empower individuals to pursue meaningful careers while simultaneously strengthening the local workforce.
Jasmine’s story is still unfolding, but one thing is certain: her passion for helping others and her dedication to the westside community will leave a lasting mark on health care in Utah. With her CNA certification in hand and her nursing aspirations on the horizon, she is well on her way to making a difference—one patient, one family, and one community at a time.