How a Local High School Senior Found Her Passion with Covenant Health

For many high school seniors, the final year is filled with familiar routines and favorite activities. For Madison Weaver, it meant taking a big step towards her future goal of becoming a pediatric nurse practitioner.  

With Covenant Health’s Patient Care Support Assistant (PCSA) program, Madison had the opportunity to work in a healthcare setting. In the program, she gained valuable experiences that reaffirmed her commitment to pursue a career in healthcare. 

“I’ve always wanted to go into pediatrics,” Madison said. “I wanted to come into the hospital and get the experience and see what it was like.” 

Discovering a Passion for Healthcare 

The PCSA program is designed for students aged 16 and 17 who are interested in healthcare careers. The program provides hands-on experience in various hospital departments, including nursing units, emergency services, imaging, laboratory services and more.  

Madison first learned about PCSA during a career fair presentation at school. After three years on her school volleyball team, Madison left sports to get a jumpstart on her healthcare career. 

“It’s because I love this job,” Madison explained. “I want to spend more time with the hospital team and patients.” 

Gaining Hands-On Experience 

Since joining the program at Covenant Health Roane, she has rotated throughout the hospital. She has worked in the medical-surgical unit, emergency department, intensive care unit and materials management. While each area has offered valuable experience, she says materials management has become a favorite. 

“I like to be busy and moving all the time, and I’m always doing something down there,” she said with a laugh.  

Her experience has also made it easier to assist the nursing team. She shared, “I know we put certain supplies in certain spots. It makes it easier to help the nurses when they’re searching for care items.”  

The experience has strengthened her desire to become a pediatric nurse practitioner. Madison is excited to continue working towards her goal. 

Patient-Centered Care From the Start 

While learning clinical skills has been valuable, Madison says building relationships is the most rewarding part. She has deeply connected with patients and team members. 

“I like talking with the patients and making them feel like there’s somebody there for them,” she said. “Sometimes they don’t have visitors, and they get bored being in a room by themselves.” 

Madison’s Impact  

Tiffany Lewallen, RN, BSN, education coordinator and LPN apprenticeship program manager, has been impressed with Madison’s growth. 

Lewallen stated: “Over the last several months, I’ve seen Madison become much more comfortable interacting with patients and working alongside our teams. She isn’t afraid to jump in, help where needed and connect with people. Those professional skills and confidence are exactly what this program is designed to build.” 

Madison credits the program with helping her develop stronger social, professional and patient care skills. She also appreciates how welcomed she feels by the hospital team and the support she receives from nurses and staff. 

“They’re always glad I’m here because I’m additional hands that can help,” she said. 

Looking Ahead 

With college on the horizon, Madison is ready to pursue her dream of becoming a pediatric nurse practitioner. She hopes to attend school in Knoxville and one day return to work at a Covenant Health facility. 

Through the PCSA program, she is already taking meaningful steps toward the career she’s always envisioned. Her advice to other students considering a healthcare career? “If you want to get your foot in the door, this is a great experience,” she said. 

Learn More 

Ready to take the next step toward your future healthcare career? Learn more about the Patient Care Support Assistant program.  

The program is currently offered at Covenant Health Fort Loudoun, Covenant Health’s Fort Sanders Regional Medical Center, Covenant Health’s Parkwest Medical Center and Covenant Health Roane. 

Caption: Roane County High School senior Madison Weaver participates in Covenant Health’s Patient Care Support Assistant Program at Covenant Health Roane. The hands-on experience has strengthened her goal of becoming a pediatric nurse practitioner.