Maria Gomez: Persistence and the Power of Dreaming Big in Education

Maria at Graduation

Maria Gomez’s story at Confluence Health shows that it’s never too late to chase your dreams, no matter how busy life gets. As a mother of six, Maria balances her roles as a certified nursing assistant in oncology, a guest greeter, and a student pursuing a behavioral health degree at Wenatchee Valley College.

Inspired by a school nurse in middle school, Maria started her healthcare career in 2014 and completed a medical assistant program in 2024. Her personal experiences shifted her focus to a career in behavioral health. “I want to help others understand it’s okay to not be okay, and there are steps you can take, to get better,” Maria says.

Supporting the academic journey of dedicated people like Maria is vital to strengthening our community’s ability to serve the healthcare needs of our region. North Central Washington residents called the lack of qualified behavioral health professionals one of the area’s top health concerns in the 2022 community health needs assessment, and Washington State data confirms—we’re short on behavioral health providers.

Confluence Health Foundation Scholarships play a transformative role, making it possible for passionate individuals like Maria to pursue their education and dreams, all while supporting a family. These scholarships help cover the cost of books and courses, and free up resources for essential needs like childcare, so Maria can focus on her studies and her family. “Financially, scholarships made a big impact and made it possible for me to keep going,” says Maria.

Maria’s Kids

Maria’s Son Graduating

Her determination inspires her family, especially her children. “My 17-year-old daughter asked, ‘How do you do this?’ I told her, ‘If I can do it, you can do it.’ I want my kids to tackle challenges now, before life gets harder with the responsibilities of being an adult. They’re proud, even if they wonder how I manage it all.”

For other parents considering a return to school to advance their healthcare careers, Maria offers honest encouragement. “I still have more than 20 years before I retire. It’s never too late, especially if you want a better financial situation for you and your family. Don’t stress about tomorrow, just focus on today. It’s never too late to improve your life for yourself and your family.”

The Confluence Health Foundation is proud to empower dedicated people like Maria through its annual scholarship process, and now is a great time to take the next step. Applications for Confluence Health Foundation scholarships will be available soon, from March 1–31, on the Foundation’s website. If you’re ready to pursue your passion in nursing or healthcare, don’t miss this opportunity to apply and let the Foundation help you turn your dreams into reality.