Laurie,
I am also studying to become a Medical office assistant. I've only been taking the course for the past 3 weeks, but so far I truly enjoy it. Although I must admit, the insurance & coding looks like it will definatly be challenging...lol. I personally think it would be easiest to start of in a small doctors office until you have been doing it for a while. As being in a large office or hospital setting might be a little overwhelming to start out.
Good luck to you.