Back to Work: Ana Gallardo

Ana Gallardo lives in Glenwood Springs and attends the CMC Spring Valley campus, just outside of town, where she is a nursing student. She’ll graduate this spring with an associate degree and is planning to pursue her Bachelor of Science in nursing, as well.

“I started school as a young mom, years ago, but I wasn’t financially stable, so I dropped out,” she said.

Ana was able to return to school thanks to a Back to Work scholarship, which has allowed her to focus more clearly on her studies, as well as her clinical work in the community and at facilities in Grand Junction and Denver.

“The scholarship really helped alleviate the financial burden,” she said. “That’s given me more focus in school, and I’m able to perform way better in my classes.”

Part of the Colorado Opportunity Scholarship Initiative at CMC, the Back to Work scholarship can provide students with up to $4,000 based on a student's field of study and financial need. If students remain in good standing, their grants can be renewed.

“I enjoy taking care of patients and helping them feel better. I work in the ICU and the medical/surgical floor, and it’s great when you see people being discharged.”

With less student debt to deal with, Ana looks forward to taking part-time classes and spending the time she needs to complete her full nursing degree. She says she is appreciative of the ways that CMC has been able to help her achieve her working goals.

“Coming out with zero debt – that’s amazing,” Ana said. “That’s the reason I came to CMC. It’s just been amazing that these donors help students to grow and be successful. Everyone should be taking these opportunities for education if they qualify.”