How Becoming an HHA Changed My Life: Student Stories from Fordham
Fordham Institute Inc. • June 11, 2025
Success isn’t always about trophies, promotions, or applause. In healthcare—and especially in caregiving—success often looks different. It’s quiet, personal, and deeply meaningful. At Fordham Institute Inc., we teach our students that success isn’t a destination. It’s a mindset, a journey, and a commitment to growth—day by day.
1. Success Is Showing Up
It takes courage to start something new. Whether you’re walking into your first class, clocking in for your first shift, or opening a textbook after a long day—that’s success.
Success isn’t perfection. It’s progress.
2. Success Is Learning from Every Experience
In healthcare, no two days are the same. There will be challenges, moments of doubt, and mistakes—but there will also be lessons, victories, and growth.
Every skill you learn and every obstacle you overcome is shaping you into a better caregiver—and a stronger person.
3. Success Is Helping One Person at a Time
You don’t need to “change the world” overnight. Helping one person feel safe, clean, fed, or heard is powerful. That is success.
In caregiving, small acts of kindness are life-changing.
4. Success Is Not Giving Up When It Gets Hard
Balancing school, work, family, and your own well-being isn’t easy. But every time you push forward despite feeling overwhelmed, you’re winning.
Resilience is a major part of success. So is rest. So is grace.
5. Success Is Becoming Who You’re Meant to Be
For many students at Fordham Institute Inc., becoming an HHA or CNA isn’t just about a job—it’s about discovering their strength, passion, and purpose.
True success is becoming the best version of yourself—professionally and personally.
Success Starts Here
At Fordham Institute Inc., we don’t just teach skills—we empower people. We believe that success looks different for everyone, and we’re proud to help our students define it for themselves.
📞 Call us at (718) 480-1804 to start your journey
Success isn’t a finish line. It’s a path—and you’re already on it
In today’s world of digital communication and virtual appointments, something powerful still stands strong— the healing power of human touch . For Home Health Aides (HHAs) and Certified Nursing Assistants (CNAs), touch isn’t just part of the job—it’s a vital part of the healing process. At Fordham Institute Inc., we train students not only in clinical skills but in the art of compassionate care. Here’s why physical, hands-on caregiving continues to be one of the most important and human aspects of healthcare. 1. Touch Brings Comfort and Reassurance A hand to hold. A gentle pat on the back. Helping someone out of bed. These simple acts of touch are deeply grounding for patients who may feel anxious, isolated, or afraid. Why it matters: Physical presence creates emotional safety. It says, “You’re not alone.” 2. Touch Promotes Physical Healing Hands-on care—like assisting with mobility, hygiene, or repositioning—does more than keep a patient clean or comfortable. It helps improve circulation, reduces bed sores, and encourages movement. Why it matters: Aides are often the first to notice physical changes, making early intervention possible. 3. It Builds Human Connection In caregiving, touch often speaks louder than words. For many clients, especially the elderly or those living alone, physical care may be their only daily connection with another person. Why it matters: Human connection through care boosts mood, lowers stress, and improves quality of life. 4. It Restores Dignity Helping someone dress, bathe, or eat isn't just physical—it’s personal. Done with care and respect, these tasks restore a person’s sense of dignity and independence. Why it matters: HHAs and CNAs have the power to transform vulnerable moments into affirming experiences. 5. Touch is Timeless Technology may change healthcare—but it will never replace the warmth of a human hand. That’s what makes caregivers irreplaceable. Why it matters: Your presence is part of the healing. You are the bridge between medical care and personal connection. Train With Heart, Serve With Purpose At Fordham Institute Inc., we teach more than skills—we teach presence, empathy, and compassion. Our graduates go on to make real, lasting differences in the lives of others, not just through what they do, but how they do it. 📞 Ready to start your journey? Call us at (718) 480-1804 Touch heals. Care connects. Your hands have the power to change lives.
Life doesn't pause when you decide to better yourself. For many of our students at Fordham Institute Inc., pursuing HHA or CNA training means juggling school, work, family, and everything in between. It's not easy—but with the right tools and mindset, it's possible. If you're feeling stretched thin, know that you're not alone. Here are some practical tips to help you stay balanced, focused, and successful—even on the busiest days. 1. Get Clear on Your Priorities You can’t do everything at once—and that’s okay. Take time to decide what matters most right now. Education, family, your job—define your top 3, and build your schedule around them. Tip: Keep your goals visible—a sticky note, phone wallpaper, or journal reminder can help you stay grounded. 2. Create a Weekly Game Plan Start each week by writing out your classes, shifts, appointments, and study blocks. Seeing it all on paper (or your phone) helps reduce mental clutter. Bonus: Leave room for rest. Burnout happens when you’re overbooked and under-recharged. 3. Use Small Pockets of Time Wisely Even 10 minutes can make a difference. Review flashcards, prep meals, or practice a skill during your lunch break or commute. Remember: Progress is progress—no matter how small. 4. Ask for Help When You Need It Don’t try to do it all alone. Whether it's leaning on a family member, classmate, or instructor, asking for help is a strength—not a weakness. Fordham Tip: We’re here for you. Our instructors and support staff are always ready to help you navigate challenges. 5. Take Care of Your Body and Mind You can’t give your best when you’re running on empty. Get rest, eat well, hydrate, and take time to reset—mentally and emotionally. Self-care idea: Try a short walk, deep breathing, or five quiet minutes before bed to decompress. 6. Celebrate Every Win Finished your assignment? Got to class on time every day this week? That’s a win. Recognize your effort and progress—it keeps you motivated. Tip: Keep a “done” list alongside your to-do list. You’ll be amazed at what you’ve accomplished. You’ve Got This Balancing school, work, and life isn’t about being perfect—it’s about being persistent. At Fordham Institute Inc., we believe in our students and their ability to rise, even when life gets busy. Take it one day at a time. Stay focused. And never forget why you started. 📞 Call us at (718) 480-1804 if you’re ready to take the next step
Choosing a career in healthcare—especially as a Home Health Aide (HHA) or Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA)—means committing to the care and well-being of others. But here’s something we often forget: to care for others well, you must first care for yourself. At Fordham Institute Inc., we see how hard our students work. Many are balancing classes, jobs, and family responsibilities—all while training for a demanding, people-centered profession. That’s why mental wellness isn’t a luxury. It’s a necessity. Here are some essential tips to help future caregivers protect their own peace, stay emotionally grounded, and build the mental strength needed for this meaningful work. 1. Start Each Day with Intention Before rushing into the day, take 5–10 minutes to center yourself. This could be a quiet moment, a deep breath, a prayer, or an affirmation. Try this affirmation: “I give my best from a place of peace and strength.” 2. Create Boundaries That Protect Your Energy It’s okay to say no. It’s okay to step away. Whether in training, caregiving, or life—learn to recognize when you’re reaching your limit and need a break. Reminder: You can’t pour from an empty cup. Refill yours regularly. 3. Talk It Out Don’t carry your stress alone. Talk to someone—a classmate, instructor, family member, or counselor. Speaking your truth lifts the emotional weight. Support tip: Fordham Institute encourages peer connections—sometimes, just knowing someone else “gets it” can change your whole day. 4. Rest Without Guilt Rest is not laziness—it’s healing. Sleep, stillness, and time away from screens are essential for emotional clarity and resilience. Mental wellness habit: Set a no-phone wind-down routine 30 minutes before bed. 5. Make Time for Joy Laughter, creativity, music, or a simple walk outside—these small joys matter. They recharge your spirit and remind you of who you are outside of work or school. Try this: Schedule one joyful thing per week—non-negotiable. 6. Know When to Ask for Help If your stress feels constant or overwhelming, seek help. There is strength in admitting you’re struggling. Whether it’s therapy, a mental health hotline, or just speaking up, don’t suffer in silence. You’re not alone—and you never have to be.  Your Mental Health Matters Being a great caregiver starts with being kind to yourself. At Fordham Institute Inc., we believe that strong students become strong healthcare professionals—not just in skills, but in spirit. You’re training to be someone’s light on a hard day. Make sure you’re lighting your own path too. Breathe. Reset. Rise. Your future—and your peace—both matter.