When Mariam Hasan first learned about the Clinical Medical Assisting program at Delaware Area Career Center, she saw an opportunity to get a head start on a future in healthcare. What she didn't realize was just how much that decision would shape her future.
"I chose to attend DACC because of the immense number of opportunities it offers," Mariam said.
Interested in healthcare from an early age, Mariam was drawn to the program's hands-on learning experiences and the chance to explore various medical specialties. Initially, she envisioned a future in pediatrics, particularly pediatric oncology. The Clinical Medical Assisting program gave her the opportunity to begin exploring those interests while still in high school.
As a student in the program, Mariam discovered that success in healthcare begins with a strong foundation.
"The most valuable things I have learned are medical terminology and anatomy," she said. "Understanding the basics is essential for success."
Through classroom instruction, projects, and skill development, Mariam gained a deeper understanding of how the human body functions and how medical professionals care for patients. Those experiences helped her connect concepts across different specialties and gave her confidence as she explored potential career paths.
But some of Mariam's most transformative experiences happened outside the classroom.
Like all students in the healthcare program, Mariam became involved with HOSA, the international student organization for future healthcare professionals. What began as attendance at a chapter meeting quickly turned into a leadership journey she never expected.
After learning about the organization's leadership opportunities, Mariam immediately applied to serve as chapter president.
"Every inch of my body jolted at the thought of it," she recalled.
She was selected as president and quickly immersed herself in leading meetings, organizing activities, attending conferences, competing in events, and supporting community service projects. Her advisor recognized her leadership potential and encouraged her to pursue an even bigger opportunity: state office.
Mariam embraced the challenge.
After completing the application process, interviewing, and campaigning at the Ohio HOSA State Leadership Conference, she found herself standing in front of more than 2,000 attendees answering a random question before delegates cast their votes.
She was elected as one of Ohio HOSA's State Vice Presidents.
Today, that role has allowed Mariam to advocate for career and technical education, participate in leadership workshops, attend national conferences, mentor future student leaders, and represent thousands of healthcare students throughout Ohio.
"All of this is thanks to DACC," she said. "Without the encouragement and support system, I would have never even thought of an opportunity as great as this one."
While leadership opportunities were expanding her confidence, Mariam was also discovering a new academic passion.
As she learned more about anatomy, diseases, and the complexities of the human body, one subject stood out above the rest: neurology.
"I became fascinated by the brain, the complexity of its structures, and how every intricate fold and connection plays a role in allowing the body to function," she said.
Her interest became even more personal as she reflected on her grandfather's experience with Parkinson's disease. Learning about neurological disorders and their impact on patients helped solidify a new career goal.
Today, Mariam plans to pursue a career as a neurologist.
After graduation, she hopes to study Public Health as a pre-med student, gain clinical experience as a medical assistant, attend medical school, and ultimately specialize in neurology.
For Mariam, however, DACC's impact goes beyond credentials, leadership titles, or career exploration.
"DACC has done more than just impact my life; it changed it for the better," she said.
She credits the experience with helping her become more confident, resilient, and certain about her future. She also values the friendships and connections she developed alongside classmates from different schools and backgrounds.
"If you are wondering if DACC is worth it, it is," Mariam said. "The opportunities allow you to step outside of your comfort zone, discover your strengths, and grow into someone who is confident in pursuing their passions."
Looking back, Mariam sees DACC as the place where she found both direction and confidence. What began as an interest in healthcare became a leadership journey, a passion for neuroscience, and a clear vision for the future.
And for a student who arrived hoping to get a head start, she leaves with something even more valuable: certainty about where she's headed next.
Photo Credit: Jonathan Pannebaker, Digital Design Senior
Learn More:
Clinical Medical Assisting Program
HOSA
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