Side by Side: How Two Sisters Built a Future in Healthcare Together

“You’re not going to get anywhere in life here.” It was a comment Samantha heard at work one day, but it stayed with her long after her shift ended. 

At the time, she and her sister Alexi were like many young adults trying to find their footing, working different jobs in fast food, retail, and childcare. They were working hard, but they weren’t sure what their future would look like. 

Instead of letting the comment define her, Samantha decided to do something different. That’s when she discovered the Goodwill San Antonio’s Academy. 

Like many people, Samantha and Alexi had only ever known Goodwill as a place to shop. They didn’t realize it could also be a place to start over. 

After enrolling in the program, offered at no cost to students, Samantha turned to her sister and asked, “Are you coming to school with me?” 

Alexi didn’t hesitate. She said yes. From that moment on, they committed to building a new future together. 

Making a New Path 

The sisters enrolled in the Academy’s Nurse Aid program, a hands-on training designed to prepare individuals for careers in healthcare.  

At first, Samantha and Alexi weren’t sure they could do it. 

“We thought school wasn’t for us,” Samantha said. “But we put our minds to it, and we did it.” 

They showed up, stayed committed, and leaned on each other every step of the process. 

 The Power of Support 

While their bond as sisters played a major role in their success, they also found encouragement in the classroom. 

Their instructor, Mrs. Jackson, created a supportive environment where they felt capable and motivated. Their classmates quickly became a community and pushed them forward on the days it felt hard. 

“We were always pushing each other, like, ‘come on, let’s go,’” Samantha said. 

After completing the program and earning their certifications, the sisters went on to finish their externships and begin applying for jobs. 

Today, thanks to the training and support they received through Goodwill’s Academy, Samantha and Alexi both work as Patient Care Techs at the same hospital. Together, they continue to support each other, just like they did in the classroom. 

 And their journey isn’t over. Samantha is considering continuing her education to pursue a Bachelor of Science in Nursing, while Alexi is exploring a future in sonography.  

Start Your Journey 

Goodwill San Antonio is more than a store; it’s a place where individuals can gain the skills, confidence, and support needed to build meaningful careers. 

If you or someone you know is ready to take the next step, explore training opportunities and discover available programs. Visit goodwillsa.org or stop by your nearest Goodwill Career Center to get started. 

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By Yvonne Z. Byrd, Multimedia Design Manager

When you donate and shop at Goodwill San Antonio, you’re helping change lives, just like Samantha and Alexi’s.
Learn how your donations support local training programs at https://www.goodwillsa.org/career-training/.