Mount Tahoma High School senior Tasyana Francis spent the last few years learning about herself, working hard and mapping a direction for her life. Thanks to the Healthcare Careers Academy program and her own determination, Tasyana is headed toward a career in medicine.  

In the healthcare program, students spend two years getting exposed to careers through experiential learning, mentorship, internships, field trips and guest speakers. They learn the skills needed to become a medical assistant, discover career options, and have the option to obtain professional credentialing at the program’s conclusion.  

This summer, Tasyana will get more hands-on experience caring for patients through a MultiCare program, and she’ll take the test to become a certified medical assistant. From there, it’s more schooling and a job in the medical field, with the ultimate goal of becoming a traveling midwife or doula.  

Here's what Tasyana had to say about her school experience and next steps.     

What’s an accomplishment you’re proud of?    

Finishing high school and standing by myself and as a group. I’m strong-minded enough to understand and value my character. My teachers really helped me. Ms. Montgomery helped me gain motivation over time. She just understood me and helped me get back on track without making me feel bad for falling off in the first place.  

What are your plans for next year?   

I’ll be going to Green River Community College in Auburn to pursue a Bachelor of Science in Nursing. After GRCC, I’ll transfer to a four-year school to complete my degree. Then  
I want to get a master’s in midwifery. I’ll do all of that while also working as a medical assistant. If I want my future to be different, it all starts here.  

How has your school experience helped prepare you for that pathway?   
 
The programs they have at Mt. Tahoma help students focus on career pathways they might want to go into. In the medical assistant program, we gained so many skills – patience, communication, documentation, the business of medicine and the actual medical practice of doing sutures, drawing blood and performing vital exams.  

Where have you shown the most grit in your high school career? 
  
Senior year for sure – juggling friends, family and personal life all impacted how I performed in class. My faith, my teachers and my dedication kept me moving forward.  

What are you looking forward to next year?   

Trusting myself and challenging myself. The decisions I’ve made were not the easiest. I’ve had lots of setbacks and second thoughts about what I should do with my life and my profession. I’m looking forward to trusting myself and knowing I make decisions that positively affect me. I’m going to make it happen. I’m excited to see how my decisions play out short term and long term.  

What’s something your biggest fan would say about you?   

I care deeply not only about myself but the world, my family and my friends. I show authentically who I am. I would drop everything for the people I love. I’m extremely hard working. I make sure to get things done, even when it’s hard.  

Describe yourself in three words.    

Compassionate, diligent, intelligent.