Staff Spotlight: Alena Perez's Path to Becoming A CNA

Meet Alena Perez. A Western Colorado University student, a new GVH team member, and a granddaughter following in her Nana’s footsteps.

For Alena Perez, the decision to pursue healthcare started long before any class or certification exam. It started with her Nana, a nurse her entire life, who showed Alena what it looks like to care for people with dedication and heart.

“She is my ‘why’,” Alena says. “Each lesson I learn in this field, she is right there with me, guiding me along the way.”

Now a senior at Western Colorado University studying Exercise and Sport Science with a Clinical Health emphasis, Alena is one of GVH’s newest Certified Nursing Assistants. She works at the Senior Care Center, where she makes sure residents feel comfortable, respected, safe, and seen.

A Friend, a Class, and a Natural Fit

Alena’s path to certification got its push from a friend and coworker who encouraged her to take the CNA class together. She was already considering it, but having a familiar face in class made it easier to take the leap.

“It was really cool to see how my exercise science background and healthcare learning are intertwined,” she says. “It all came naturally to me.”

Caring Close to Home

Alena describes the GVH team as “one big family” and says working in the town she loves gives her work a deeper sense of purpose.

“In a place like the Gunnison Valley, everyone is so connected. When you make an impact in someone’s life, it carries real meaning.”

What keeps her going? The small moments. “Whenever I finish helping someone and they thank me, it reminds me how much it matters. My residents remind me every day why I chose this career.”

When she’s not at work, you’ll find Alena snowboarding in the winter, biking with friends, or spending time up at Taylor Reservoir. She’s as rooted in this community outside of work as she is inside it.

Her Advice? Just Do It.

“Do it! It might seem a little scary at first, but it all comes together and opens your life to an amazing field. The highs completely overpower the lows.”

She also passes along a reminder she keeps close herself: “No matter how stressful life, work, or school gets, don’t forget to stop, take a moment for yourself, and know that everything is going to be okay.”

Interested in a Nursing Career at GVH?

GVH is proud to support new and growing healthcare professionals right here in our community. We are bringing back an initiative to help new hires gain their Certified Nursing Aide (CNA) accreditation.

If you or someone you know is interested in becoming a CNA you must apply to the CNA class position by Thursday July 16 to be accepted for the August 3 start date.

To learn more about other career opportunities, visit gunnisonvalleyhealth.org/careers.