Student Spotlight - Taliyah Goo

Graduate Taliyah Goo is using the skills she learned at EvCC to pursue her passion in healthcare, with the goal of helping people through some of their toughest challenges. “EvCC helped shape the kind of medical assistant I want to be: someone who is competent, compassionate, and grounded in purpose,” says Taliyah.

Tell us a little bit about yourself, including the degree or certificate you earned at EvCC:

My name is Taliyah Goo, and I recently graduated with an associate degree in Professional and Technical Education & Applied Sciences while completing my Medical Assisting Certificate. Growing up, my grandparents owned and managed a senior care facility, which helped spark my passion for caring for others. As I got older, I realized that healthcare was more than just an interest and that it was something I wanted to dedicate my life to. I’m especially passionate about serving patients who are underinsured, experiencing housing instability, or facing limited access to care. My goal is to make every patient feel seen, heard, and safe, especially during their most vulnerable moments.

Why did you choose EvCC?

I chose EvCC because of the wide variety of degrees and programs it offers. I appreciated that the school is focused on providing students with multiple pathways to continue their education and grow professionally. The smaller instructor-to-student ratio also stood out to me. I knew it would give me the chance to build strong relationships with my instructors and create a more supportive and comfortable learning environment. On top of that, I loved that EvCC is close to home and partners with the Community Health Centers of Snohomish County to help serve and provide health care for our local communities. That connection made it feel even more meaningful to be part of this program.

What’s next for you after graduation?

After graduation, I plan to complete my externship at the Community Health Center here at EvCC’s campus while continuing to build my clinical skills. Eventually, I’d like to continue my education in the healthcare field by going to physician assistant school. I’m open to wherever this journey leads me, as long as I’m helping people along the way.

What inspired you to pursue your area of interest?

As an adult, I had personal experiences where navigating the healthcare system felt overwhelming and cold. I realized how important it is to have a compassionate health care team. I wanted to be that kind of support for others and treat patients how I would want to be treated: someone who could bring clarity, comfort, and care to people during uncertain times. 

How are the skills you learned at EvCC helping you reach your goals?

The skills I learned at EvCC have given me so much more than just technical knowledge, they’ve given me confidence. The hands-on training helped me feel prepared and capable in a clinical setting. More importantly, I developed soft skills like how to stay calm under pressure, communicate with empathy, and advocate for patients who might feel overlooked. EvCC helped shape the kind of medical assistant I want to be: someone who is competent, compassionate, and grounded in purpose. Every skill I gained here is a step closer to the kind of provider I hope to become. I want to be someone who shows up for people when they need it most.

What is one of the best experiences you had at EvCC?

One of the best experiences I had at EvCC was my externship. It was the first time everything I learned in a classroom for the past year came together in a real-world setting. Leaving the classroom was bittersweet. It is challenging but rewarding and it reminded me why I chose this path in the first place.

Who helped you succeed, and how?

So many people helped me succeed. First and foremost, my instructors, who were always patient and encouraging. Secondly, my cohort, who became like family because we all started and completed this program together. Lastly, my husband and family, who supported me emotionally through long nights of studying and reminded me that taking a break is okay. 

What advice would you give to new students?

Be kind to yourself — you’re going to grow through this process, and growth doesn’t always feel comfortable. Ask questions, lean on your classmates, and don’t be afraid to admit when you need help. You belong here, even on the days it feels hard. Take pride in every small step forward and don’t forget about self care. My best advice is to be comfortable being uncomfortable. 

Is there anything else you’d like to share?

This program challenged me in ways I didn’t expect, but it also helped me find strength I didn’t know I had. If you’re thinking about joining a program at EvCC, do it. It took me almost 8 years and dropping out of college 3 times to find my calling and did it at this college. If you’re already here, trust that you’re exactly where you need to be. This field needs people with heart, and that’s something you can’t teach in a textbook.