Join us for a series of interviews with recent graduates of our Certified Nursing Assistant and Home Health Aide programs, where students discuss the impact of the program on their career paths and how it has changed their approaches to caregiving. This month, meet Haisia “Sia” Tupou, a CNA graduate from 2025.
What inspired you to pursue a career as a caregiver, CNA, or home health aide?
My mom. She’s an RN and started in senior living. I wanted to continue working in senior care.
How has completing the CNA/HHA training program prepared you for real-world caregiving?
It gave me a head start and prepared me for the caregiving job that I have now in a facility. I had the skills; I just had to apply them.
Was there a particular class or hands-on skill that had the biggest impact on you?
When we did the dementia simulator exercise in class. It really put into perspective what residents with dementia go through.
What skills-technical or personal – do you feel improved the most during your training?
One of the things that I have improved on is how to de-escalate situations. For example, I have the skills to redirect a resident who sundowns.
How has this program changed the way you approach caregiving?
Completing the program has helped me become more person-centered and focused. Caregiving is not just a job. I am helping seniors.
How do you feel the certificate will help you advance your career in healthcare or senior living/assisted living?
It has been very beneficial. I have already seen the benefits of having a CNA certificate. I have been getting job offers from several hospitals and skilled nursing facilities.
What do you think makes The Art of Care Academy training program stand out from others?
The staff – Lacy and Shay. Shay was a great instructor.
What are your short-term career goals after graduation?
I want to gain more CNA experience and then go into substance abuse counseling.
What advice would you give future students entering this Home Health Aide or CNA program?
Go into the program open-minded. Be willing to learn and gain as much experience as you can.
Is there a patient/resident/client that has had an impact on your life and career choices? If yes, tell us about them and your experience.
It was my very first resident after graduation. I felt that the transition from school to the real world made me feel comfortable going into the facility and dealing with residents. Sadly, that resident passed away about two months ago.
