Welcome to the very first edition of Working World Ready! Whether you’re just starting out or already in clinicals, it’s never too early to start thinking like a healthcare professional. The way you carry yourself now sets the tone for future job interviews, networking, and how employers will see you. This month, we’re focusing on building your professional identity— so when opportunity knocks, you’re already dressed for the part (figuratively and literally).
What’s an Elevator Pitch—and Why Does It Matter?
An elevator pitch is a short, confident introduction you can use anytime someone asks:
“So, what do you do?”
In job interviews, networking events, clinical rotations, and even casual conversations, this quick intro helps you make a strong first impression. It tells people who you are, what you’re about, and where you’re headed—in 30 seconds or less.
Even if you’re still in school, you’re already developing a professional identity. A good elevator pitch shows you’re serious, self-aware, and ready for the healthcare world.
Tips to Make It Yours
- Be conversational, not robotic. You’re not reading a script—just telling your story.
- Practice out loud. Try it in the mirror, with classmates, or record yourself on your phone.
- Adapt it. Make small tweaks depending on who you’re talking to (e.g., a classmate vs. a hiring manager).
- Keep it fresh. Update it as you move through your program or gain new experience.
3-Step Formula for CCI Students
Here’s a super simple structure that works:
Who You Are
Start with your name and what you’re studying.
“Hi, I’m Jordan, a Vocational Nursing student at California Career Institute.”
What You’re Passionate About
This is your “why”—what drives you in healthcare?
“I’ve always had a heart for patient care, especially in fast-paced environments like urgent care or pediatrics.”
What You’re Working Toward
End with your goal or what you’re currently focused on.
“Right now, I’m gaining hands-on clinical experience and preparing for licensure
so I can jump into the field as soon as I graduate.”
From Classroom Confidence to Career Success!
Why Your Email Signature Matters
Even before graduation, the way you communicate says a lot about your professionalism—and it starts with how you sign your emails. A clean, consistent signature helps others quickly understand who you are, where you’re studying, and how to reach you. It’s one of the easiest ways to start building your professional identity while still in school.
Whether you’re emailing instructors, clinical coordinators, potential employers, or classmates, a professional email signature shows that you take your role as a future healthcare worker seriously.
What to Include in a Student Email Signature
Here’s a simple checklist:
- Your Full Name
- Program and School (Include your expected graduation year)
- Phone Number (Optional, but useful if you’re job hunting or communicating with clinical sites)
- Email Address (Only if it’s different from the one you’re sending from)
- LinkedIn Profile (Optional but encouraged if you’ve created one)
Make your emails look polished and professional:
Maria Lopez
VN Student – California Career Institute,
Class of 2025 mlopez@email.com | (123) 456-7890
linkedin.com/marialopez
Pro Tips for a Polished Look
No fonts or colors that scream. Stick with clean fonts like Arial, Calibri, or Helvetica.
Avoid oversized logos or images. They can look unprofessional or not load correctly.
Keep it mobile-friendly. Most emails are opened on phones, so keep it simple and short.
Test it. Send yourself a test email to make sure everything looks clean and clickable.
- Update Your Headline – Make it Specific & Searchable
Instead of just saying “Nursing Student,” try something like:
“Future LVN | Passionate About Patient Care | CCI Nursing Student ’25” Make it clear who you are and what you’re aiming for! - Add a Strong ‘About’ Section
This is your 30-second elevator pitch. Highlight your goals, skills, and why you’re passionate about your field.
Pro tip: Keep it friendly, but professional — employers want to know who you are. - Show Off Your Experience (Even if You’re Still in School) List your clinical hours, volunteer work, or any healthcare-related experience. Add bullet points with real tasks you performed — like:
- Took vitals for 15+ patients daily
- Supported wound care and medication prep
- Assisted with EKGs and charting
Bonus Tip:
Add a professional photo. You don’t need a studio headshot — just good lighting, a friendly smile, and a neutral background. Don’t have one? Reach out to the CCI Marketing Department at rob.onekea@calinstitute.edu and we’ll shoot one for you!
