In May 2021, as part of the very first Youth Pre-Apprenticeship Program at Northern Regional Hospital, Annsley Ramey began her journey in healthcare as one of just ten high school students selected for the inaugural class. Working in Day Surgery while still in school, she gained hands-on experience long before most students even stepped into a clinical setting.
Five years later, she has come full circle by recently being recognized as Best Nurse in the Mount Airy News Mountie Awards.
Her passion for nursing started early. “Ever since I was a little girl, I wanted to be a nurse because I’ve always had a strong desire to help people,” she shared. That calling deepened during high school while caring for her great-grandparents on weekends. “That experience taught me patience, and the level of compassion required to be a nurse.”
She began taking college prerequisites during her junior year of high school, then entered the pre-apprenticeship program during her senior year while completing her CNA certification at Surry Community College. She continued working in Day Surgery throughout high school and nursing school, eventually graduating from Surry’s nursing program and stepping into her role in the Intensive Care Unit at Northern Regional Hospital.
“When I first started here five years ago, I was really focused on learning and just getting comfortable,” she said. “Over time, this place has honestly started to feel like a second home. Now it means a lot more to me. I’m not just learning anymore, I’m able to give back, support others, and provide more meaningful care. There’s a real sense of pride in being part of the same organization that helped shape me as a nurse.”
It’s the human moments that continue to define her work. One experience that stands out was caring for a long-term patient and being able to take him outside after weeks in the hospital. “Seeing the joy on his face from something so simple reminded me that nursing is about more than just medical care. It’s about human connection and quality of life.”
For students considering a future in healthcare, her message is simple: “Take the opportunity! I was able to earn income while in nursing school and not worry about tuition or books. I learned so much and felt confident in my skills as a new graduate because of the pre-apprenticeship.
She also credits her success to strong mentorship, especially Allison Bedsaul, Senior Director of Acute Care and Director of Nurse Education at Northern Regional Hospital, who she says played a meaningful role in her journey. “She develops relationships with her students and is so understanding of the stress nursing school brings, while always pushing you to be your best. She reminds you of your value when you forget it.”
To learn more about career pathways and training opportunities at Northern Regional Hospital, visit www.ChooseNorthern.org/Careers.
