Career Care Institute - Lancaster — Local services in Lancaster

As a proud former CCI alumna , I would like to share my experience during my time at the institution for the LVN program. First and foremost, I extend my heartfelt gratitude to the many dedicated and inspiring teachers who genuinely wanted to see us succeed. While the majority of them have since moved on to other opportunities, their encouragement and support left a lasting impression. Saying goodbye to them was difficult, as they motivated us and pushed us to be our best. Thankfully, a few exceptional educators, such as Mr. Riley, Dr. V. and Mrs. Summer., stayed throughout our journey and served as tireless advocates for us.

My time at CCI, however, was not without challenges. The program underwent significant changes, including shifts in faculty and clinical site placements, which impacted the overall stability of our learning environment. At one point, we found ourselves without an instructor, and the Director of Nursing (DON), Dr. Levance Larry, had to step in as a substitute. Unfortunately, my experience with him was far from positive.

Dr. Larry’s approach to leadership and teaching was often degrading and dismissive of our concerns. On one occasion, his lack of empathy was particularly evident when I suffered a medical situation during class due to stress. Instead of addressing the situation, he continued teaching as if nothing had happened. It was my classmates, not the DON, who came to my aid. Disturbingly, he then sent the class on a break and left me alone to recover, further demonstrating his unpreparedness to handle emergencies.

This pattern of insensitivity persisted. Dr. Larry belittled our cohort, labeling us as needing “kid-level learning” rather than adult-level instruction. Even when we collectively succeeded on exams, there was no acknowledgment or encouragement—only accusations of dishonesty. Class representatives who attempted to advocate for us were dismissed, and he overrode our votes to appoint someone more compliant.

As we approached graduation, I faced additional disappointment. During a survey for end-of-program acknowledgments, my name was inexplicably excluded, despite numerous attempts to address the issue with student services. This oversight extended to our pinning ceremony—a day meant to celebrate our hard work and accomplishments. To my dismay, my name was missing from the program pamphlet. This deeply hurtful experience tarnished what should have been a joyful milestone for both me and my family.

Despite these challenges, I am incredibly grateful for my classmates, the supportive teachers, and the former student services team, as well as Ms. Mona, who consistently advocated for us. Their unwavering support was instrumental in helping me persevere through difficult times.

Until meaningful changes are made, I cannot in good conscience recommend this school. However, if you choose to enroll, I wish you the best of luck in navigating...

If you graduate from this program you will be a nurse hands down but you must have reliable baby sitting, do not expect you can call off or take a sick day, you’re only allowed 1-2 days off after that you’ll be in big trouble. You must MUST be on time, if you’re late they consider you absent. Have transportation (for av and sometimes out of the av) prepare yourself to study a lot. Use your resources, read read and more read, YouTube, study groups, tutoring (if available) The exams are hard at first but once you get the hang of it, it starts to make sense. Keep at it and give it your all and you’ll pass. Clinicals seem terrifying but once you start going you’ll get the hang of it. The time flys before you know you’re done.

It is some what expensive depending on what financial aid you’ll get, be prepared you may have to pay every month out of your own pocket (I did) even with the work load and studying I was able to work a little part time job which covered my school payment. I mention the money aspect because there’s going to be hidden things you have to pay for that you might not think of. Shoes, extra uniforms, school supplies, nurse supplies etc.

Do not let ATI terrify you, like I mentioned it gets easier once you do it. It truly gets you ready for the nclex (state test you need to pass to get license) Also with using all your resources, use ATI to study exam questions. The more questions you answer the easier it gets to break down critical thinking, multiple choice, true and false. Once you understand what the questions are asking you, it starts to click in your head.

I’ve been a nurse going on 3 years best decision I’ve made was going to this school. It was VERY HARD at first, but now I look back and it wasn’t that bad, It finishes quickly, the course moved so fast. A huge reason I recommend this school is because you don’t need a college background. I only had my high school diploma I was out of school for 10 years and I still did it. If I can do it honestly anyone can!

Being a nurse gives you alot of flexibility, full time, part time, per diem, multiple jobs, day time/night time. You can provide for your family. You can do alot with your license. I still get emails about jobs from this school, they’ve given me references when I first started, they do help you if needed. Highly recommend but get ready to work...

Admittedly, when I was searching for a school I was veered away from CCI due to other people’s past experiences. However, circumstances beyond my control lead me here and I was met with the warm heart of Dr.Dykehouse the Director of Education and the admitting staff. Who were all very helpful and accommodating to my situation. The lead of student services Seraia will always have your best interest at heart, do not ever hesitate to go to her for help with anything, she has every answer to everything.

As far as the Vocational Nursing department, I will go as far as stating that the instructors exceed all expectations and probably don’t get paid enough. Mrs. Summer is tough as nails and will test the core of your being but I promise, you will be the best nurse you can be because of it. Dr.Villanueva, is the best of the best and if I could take him again for my pre reqs for RN I would. The staff in the VN department is overall very helpful adept at their job so expect results. Shoutout to Yvette and annaleise the administrative assistants who keep that place running. And the beautiful soul Ms. Mona who keeps you on your toes with ATI and whips you into shape for the NCLEX.

As far as the program itself, the clinical sites are varied. I went to nursing homes, the mental health ward in the hospital, ob, adult day care, Kaiser… they keep you well rotated. You also get a turn in a county. The clinical instructors are excellent. Shout out to the fantastic Mr.Riley who does it all and makes everyone look bad. Just kidding (but not really). They have some knowledgeable RN clinical instructors on staff as well. Both named Mrs.G who are a well of knowledge and will make your brain go into overdrive.

Overall, the program is not without its faults but I have found that you get that wherever you go. I will go as far as saying the good outweighs the bad. You will get what you pay for and essentially, that is all you can ask for when you want to further...