Elisabeth Self’s inspiring journey into nursing

“I’ve always loved caring for people,” Elisabeth shared. “Even in kindergarten, I said I wanted to be a nurse. And I’ve stuck with that ever since.”

Now a Certified Clinical Medical Assistant (CCMA) with Holston Medical Group (HMG), Elisabeth’s path has been shaped by personal experiences, family ties, and a deep sense of purpose. Raised alongside two sisters with special needs, Elisabeth developed an instinct to care for others. That compassion became the foundation of her nursing journey—and the heartbeat of her daily work.

HMG didn’t just give Elisabeth a job—they gave her a future.

Through a partnership with Northeast State Community College and HMG’s Clinical Care Technician (CCT) program, Elisabeth gained critical hands-on experience before becoming a full-time nurse. That opportunity allowed her to learn alongside experienced professionals, in real-world patient settings, while HMG supported her growth every step of the way.

“We are so proud of her,” said Barsha Grant, HMG Nurse Manager. “She embraced the program and found her calling. Our CCT program is designed to let individuals test the waters of nursing. For those like Elisabeth, who discover their passion, we’re able to train, support, and grow them into outstanding nurses.”

By building partnerships with local academic programs, HMG is creating clear pathways into nursing, and providing financial and educational support along the way. This can significantly remove barriers for those aspiring to become nurses.

As the first face many patients see, nurses like Elisabeth play a vital role in creating trust, comfort, and continuity in care. That role is one Dr. Chad Bates, a primary care physician at HMG, deeply values.

“Elisabeth was still in training, but I saw her initiative, her attitude, and her heart,” said Dr. Bates. “I knew it was worth the wait. You can teach skills, but you can’t teach heart—and Elisabeth has that in abundance.”

Dr. Bates describes nurses as “the first line” of the patient experience, managing everything from medication reviews to patient follow-ups and emotional support. “Patients often know their nurse even better than their doctor. That relationship builds trust, and trust drives better health outcomes.”

For Elisabeth, being that trusted point of contact is more than a responsibility—it’s an honor. “You become that safe person for them,” she said. “They call you, they trust you. That relationship means everything.”

At HMG, Elisabeth found more than a workplace—she found a community of caregivers who share her values.

“I’ve seen nurses stay after hours to make sure patients have their oxygen, or the supplies they need. It’s not just a job. It’s about doing the right thing because you care,” Elisabeth said.

This shared dedication to providing quality care that exceeds expectations is why Elisabeth chose to stay at HMG full-time. “Everyone here has a heart for it. That makes it easier—and more meaningful—to come to work every day.”

With more than three decades of nursing experience, Barsha Grant understands the stakes. “Nurses are retiring, and it’s up to us to prepare the next generation,” she said. “At HMG, we’re doing just that—partnering with local schools, offering real experience, and helping students discover if nursing is the right path.”

The impact is already clear.

Elisabeth is now a full-time nurse with a bright future ahead. And as she continues to grow, she’s also helping to carry forward HMG’s mission—to always put patients first, and to serve as a Health Partner for Life.