07/20/2026
🌟 Meet our newest Certified Medical Assistant, Shanyn, CMA (AAMA)! 🌟
June 2026 AAS Graduate
Learn why Shanyn chose the Medical Assistant Program at Anoka Technical College and how her journey prepared her for a rewarding career in healthcare.
I remember meeting Shanyn for the very first time about 8 months ago. She was excited, eager, and ready to begin a new chapter. From day one, she brought enthusiasm, determination, and a genuine passion for learning. Shanyn is a fierce leader whose resilience, positive attitude, and compassion inspired those around her throughout the program. While her journey included a few bumps along the way—as many journeys do—she never let those challenges define her. Instead, she faced each obstacle with courage, learned from every experience, and kept moving forward with purpose. I am incredibly proud of all she has accomplished and excited to see where her healthcare journey takes her next.
Why did you choose Anoka Technical College?
"I chose Anoka Technical College because it was the closest college that offered the Medical Assistant program I was looking for. My mom also graduated from Anoka Tech years ago, and she always spoke highly of the school. It has a great location, a strong Medical Assistant program, and I knew it would give me the education and support I needed to succeed."
What was your favorite part of the Medical Assistant Program—and why?
"My favorite part of the program was all the hands-on learning we did in Intro to Lab Skills and during Clinical I and Clinical II. I'm a very hands-on learner, so those experiences really helped me build my confidence and skills.
Another highlight was the friendships I made. During my final semester, there were only four of us in the cohort, and we became incredibly close. We supported one another, relied on each other for help, and celebrated each other's successes. Those relationships made the experience even more meaningful."
Where did you complete your 200-hour externship, and what was that experience like?
"I completed my externship at North Memorial Health in Elk River, and it was, without a doubt, the best experience. From day one, everyone welcomed me with open arms and made me feel like part of the team. I never felt like I was failing or that I couldn't ask questions.
The providers, Certified Medical Assistants, and clinical staff truly felt like a family. If someone didn't know the answer to a question, they would help me find someone who did. That meant a lot to me because asking questions is how you learn and grow. It was an environment where I felt supported every step of the way."
Where will you be working after you finish your 200-hour externship?
"Because of some personal life circumstances, I haven't made any final decisions yet."
Anything else you'd like to share?
"If you're on the fence about a career in healthcare, I encourage you to give the Medical Assistant program at Anoka Tech a chance. It has been one of the best decisions I've made. You'll gain valuable skills, have the opportunity to make a difference in people's lives, and meet incredible classmates, instructors, and healthcare professionals along the way.
The relationships you build become a family you never knew you needed, and that's something truly special."
💙 Thank you, Shanyn, for sharing your story and allowing us to be a part of your journey. Your healthcare story is just beginning, and we know you will continue to lead with compassion, confidence, and excellence. Congratulations on becoming a Certified Medical Assistant—we can't wait to see all that you'll accomplish!
📅 Interested in becoming a Medical Assistant like Shanyn?
Join us for an Information Session at Anoka Technical College!
📍 Room 151
🗓️ July 21
🕐 1:00 p.m.
Learn about the Medical Assistant program, admissions, financial aid, and how you can begin your own path toward a rewarding career in healthcare. We hope to see you there!
