Danita A. knew balancing work, school, and motherhood wouldn't be easy, but her determination carried her through. Initially inspired by visits to American Career College-Ontario, where her mother works, she felt drawn to the hands-on labs and practical learning environment.
"I've been coming to ACC probably for the last year or two," the 2024 medical assistant graduate recalled. "I used to think, 'Wow, this is so cool.' The facility intrigued me first."
Before joining ACC, Danita had worked various jobs, including a stint as a flight attendant and later at Amazon. Yet, she sought a career fueled by passion and purpose. Encouragement from her family, friends, and even a pivotal conversation with her neighbor finally convinced her to pursue a career in healthcare.
"She gave me that final push that family and friends were already giving," Danita said. "That moment made me realize, 'I am capable, and I have a good support system. Anything I put my mind to, I've proven I can achieve.'"
Returning to school after several years presented challenges, especially balancing coursework with caring for her young daughter. Still, Danita remained committed, finding support from both family and ACC’s nurturing community.
"I had amazing instructors," Danita shared. "Any time I needed support, they gave me a clear head and encouraged me. All staff interactions were amazing, making coming to school fun."
Danita not only excelled academically but thrived socially, becoming a program ambassador and supporting her classmates. Program ambassadors guide prospective students and their families through the campus, answering questions and highlighting key features. They act as positive role models, demonstrating the values and culture of ACC to both current and potential students. And the community — the family — at ACC became a significant part of her journey.
"That's what made school fun — the community," she emphasized. "It's like a family, not just class."
Looking ahead, Danita plans to continue her education and possibly pursue nursing or aesthetic care, inspired by her experiences and ACC’s supportive environment. She encourages future students, especially those balancing family responsibilities, to stay determined and take advantage of available resources.
“I had the drive to finish and get working to provide for myself and my child. Before I started, I had the mindset of, ‘I'm going to do it,’" and complete it. I just wanted to succeed and finish as soon as possible,” she said. "Having a child and going to school is hard but possible. Lots of opportunities opened up I didn't know existed before school."
