Impact Stories
Overcoming the Odds: Jessica's Story
Jessica Oregel overcame substantial educational barriers to become a registered nurse and earn her BSN through the AltaMed Nursing School Collaborative, driven by her father's death from lack of accessible healthcare.
I wish my family had access to the care AltaMed provides during my family's struggles. It's what drives me to make a difference in the lives of those who, like my family, face significant barriers to care.”
Jessica Oregel
Jessica Oregel overcame substantial educational barriers to become a registered nurse and eventually earn her Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) degree through the AltaMed Nursing School Collaborative. Her determination was fueled by personal experience—her father died from AIDS-related complications when she was eight years old due to lack of accessible healthcare.
Educational Journey
Despite strong grades and counselor encouragement, financial constraints prevented Oregel from attending a four-year university initially. She earned a medical assistant certificate from adult school instead. After witnessing nurse practitioners' impact on patient care, she enrolled at Cerritos College to pursue nursing, completing a nine-year program while working as a waitress.
Career at AltaMed
In 2014, Oregel joined AltaMed as an RN case manager with the Program for All-Inclusive Care for the Elderly (PACE). She later transitioned to the Daniel V. Lara clinic, coordinating care for high-risk HIV-positive patients—work particularly meaningful given her father's medical history.
Nursing School Collaborative
Oregel learned about the program in 2022 during a nursing retreat. As a working mother of two—one with special needs—she initially hesitated but found confidence through departmental support. She graduated with her BSN in 2024 and was promoted to RN manager at the DVL clinic.
I got to see a different layer of nursing; you're not just learning about wound care. You're learning about leadership, management, ethics, and data.”
Jessica Oregel
A Decade of Service
Oregel celebrated her 10-year work anniversary at AltaMed. She reflected on her journey as one of perseverance aimed at creating opportunity for her children, patients, and team leadership.
Seeing the ideas in your head come to life and contribute to positive change makes me feel proud.”
Jessica Oregel
Make a Difference