On a Path Toward a Promising Medical Career
Keyla Alvarez has wanted to help those around her feel better since she was 8 years old. During her senior year at high school, Keyla saw how her passion for enhancing people's well-being could become a career as she began taking concurrent enrollment classes at Salt Lake Community College (SLCC).
“While I was in high school, I had to opportunity to earn my CNA and Medical Interpreter for the Spanish-speaking community certifications,” said Keyla. “I also had the chance to work an internship at local hospitals that gave me the chance to explore various healthcare fields. I learned so much and just knew healthcare was the career field for me.”
As a new high school graduate, Keyla continued her studies at SLCC in Fall 2020. “At the height of COVID, I started as a full-time college student,” said Keyla. “Even though all my classes were online, SLCC was still a welcoming place.”
In 2022, after Keyla had completed her general studies, she learned about the Metallica Scholars Initiative Scholarship and quickly applied. “When I found out I had been awarded this amazing scholarship, it was such a relief!” said Keyla. “The Surgical Tech program at SLCC is rigorous, leaving little time for work. I am a PRN CNA but only have time to work one shift a week; that doesn’t earn me enough money to be able to pay my tuition. This scholarship has made it possible for me dedicate my time to my studies – it’s made a significant difference in my life."
Established by the members and management of Metallica in 2017 to invest in the people and places that have supported the band, the All Within My Hands Foundation focuses on supporting sustainable communities through workforce education.
“Earning the Metallica Scholarship makes me feel special,” said Keyla. “It’s so cool that Metallica is helping me continue my education and making this career possible for me. I am so grateful for this opportunity!”
The surgical technology program at SLCC prepares students to work as part of a surgical team under the supervision of a physician or registered nurse. Half of the class are early enrollment students, and the other half are students on a more traditional pathway. Both groups earn an associate of applied science in surgical technology and obtain a nationally recognized certification allowing them to work anywhere in the United States as a Surgical Technologist.
“I’ve made a lot of friends through this program,” said Keyla. “And the instructors have taught me so much and given me opportunities to gain experience and explore various career paths.”
Keyla graduated from SLCC in May 2023, earning an associate of applied science degree in surgical technology. She plans to continue studying at SLCC and earn a degree in nursing. “My next plan is to become a surgical first assistant and work at a large hospital,” said Keyla. “I love the excitement of the ER. I want to be on the front lines working alongside the surgical team. Ultimately, my goal is to work in Labor and Delivery. We will see where this next chapter takes me!”