Meet Dr. Qudsia Tabishyar

If you’ve spent any time around the halls of California Career Institute, chances are you’ve heard of Dr. Qudsia Tabishyar — or as many students affectionately call her, Dr. Q. Her journey into teaching is both inspiring and full of heart. Originally from Afghanastan, Dr. Qudsia completed medical school before moving to the U.S. Life took her through many twists and turns, but she eventually found her way back into the medical field, starting a new chapter as a nurse. She actually began that journey right here at CCI. Her dedication and passion stood out so much that Dr. Qahoush personally asked her to consider becoming an instructor
— and the rest is history.
Because she was once a student herself, Dr. Qudsia deeply connects with those she now teaches. She understands the challenges and sacrifices many students face. “Our students are amazing,” she says. “A lot of them are in their 20s or 30s, raising families, working jobs — and still giving it their all. I’ve been there, and I want to help them succeed.”
Known for her warm, encouraging personality, Dr. Qudsia creates a classroom where students feel seen, heard, and supported. Her teaching style is rooted in empathy. She listens without judgment, always putting herself in her students’ shoes. Her goal is to help each student tap into their potential, not just to pass the program, but to become compassionate and confident healthcare professionals. She’s honest with them from the start: it’s not an easy program — but if they listen, work hard, and stay focused, it’s absolutely achievable.
One of the most meaningful parts of her role is watching students transform their lives. She recalls one particular student who came from a well-educated family but lost everything to addiction. After years of struggle, they came to CCI with a desire to rebuild. Dr. Qudsia walked with them through the entire program. That student passed the NCLEX on their first try, pursued their RN, and is now working as a registered nurse. “That’s why I do this,” she says, “to witness stories like that.”

Ask her why she loves CCI, and the answer is instant. “The curriculum is high quality and flexible. I’ve watched our LVN and MA programs grow, and they truly prepare students for real-world success,” she says. “Plus, our one-day, 12-hour clinicals are perfect for people with families and jobs. It gives them more control over their time.” She also can’t say enough about the CCI staff. “They’re the best — passionate, dedicated, and truly invested in the students.”
What keeps Dr. Qudsia motivated day after day is the students themselves. “They come here to change their lives. I take that personally,” she says. “When they succeed, I feel like I’ve succeeded too.” One of her favorite moments as an instructor is seeing students shine during clinicals or when they ace their quizzes — especially when she sees the improvement from week to week. “By the third or fourth quiz, you can really see it click for them. That’s the best feeling.”
Outside of the classroom, Dr. Qudsia loves to cook, bake, and paint
— creative outlets that keep her inspired. But her heart is always with her students, and she has some advice for those just starting out: “This isn’t just a class — it’s your future. Give it everything you’ve got. Pay attention, ask for help, and use every resource we offer. We’re here to guide you, so take advantage of that. What you put in is exactly what you’ll get out.”
For Dr. Qudsia, CCI isn’t just a place to work — it’s a place where lives change. And she’s honored to be a part of that transformation, one student at a time.
View the entire interview @ calinstitute.edu