The decision to enter the HCC program at Indian Capital Technology Center in Stilwell was a personal one for Westville senior Hanna Gibson.

“My father has a heart condition, and I grew up wanting to help him and others like him. I really enjoy the hands-on experiences we get to have because then I see I really have the knowledge to help someone.”

The HCC or Health Careers Certification program is a one-year class at ICTC with the goal of helping students obtain theirCNA license. The program goes through anatomy, medical terminology, CPR, employability skills and personal responsibilities like being on time and completing assignments.

“A lot of students will use this as a stepping-stone to go into another area of healthcare such as nursing physical therapy or even an administrative area,” said program instructor Kerrie Worley. “I love watching students eyes light up when they complete something in clinicals that they learned about in a classroom setting.”

In addition to her work at ICTC, Hanna is also involved in several activities at Westville High. She is a member of FCCLA, the National Honor Society and carries a 4.05 grade point average and is a four-year member of the school color guard.

“In both the medical program and color guard you have to have very precise communication,” said Hanna. “If you give a wrong command the entire routine could be messed up.”

Although she has learned a lot already in the class, Hanna says there is one area that will probably be hard for her to grasp.

“We haven’t covered it yet, but I think when we talk about death and dealing with dying patients that will be a hard area for me.” said Hanna.

A determined student, Hanna is well on her way to her next step in life according to her instructor.

“Hanna is probably my top student,” said Worley. “She does amazing on all of her work and is always prepared. She grasps concepts quickly and even helps other students if they need it. She has already been accepted at Rogers State University where she hopes to get her nursing degree.”

Hanna even has some thoughts about her plans after that.

“After I get my nursing degree, I’m planning to explore the joint program between Rogers State and Oklahoma State University to become a doctor. Or, if not, I’ll remain a nurse or a nurse practitioner. This ICTC program has a lot of practical benefits so even if you don’t want to pursue a medical career you learnthings like first aid and CPR which can come in handy no matter what career you’re in,” said Gibson.