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Falls Church High School senior Manushri Singh is already taking vital signs, maintaining sterile technique and managing patient information as she prepares for a future in healthcare.

Singh is completing the school’s two-year Medical Assisting academy course, which gives students practical experience modeled on work in clinics and hospitals. She joined because she wanted to practice medicine before college, not simply study it in textbooks.

During the program’s first year, students learn subjects such as medical terminology and human anatomy. The second year brings more clinical work, including laboratory tests and patient-record management.

Practical nursing teacher Jaqueline Portnoy said the class combines engaging activities with lessons about accuracy and holistic patient care. She described Singh as a dependable student whose enthusiasm helps make the course engaging.

Singh said the program has taught her how to chart patient information and take vital signs while also building her professionalism and teamwork. Interacting with patients helped her see how different parts of healthcare connect.

Her interest in medicine grew from a desire to serve others, particularly when they are most in need of care. A classroom discussion about hospice and elder care deepened that commitment.

The lesson showed Singh that healthcare is not limited to saving lives. It can also mean providing comfort, safety and community support in many different circumstances.

Singh expanded her experience over the summer through a six-week Red Cross volunteer program with the U.S. Armed Forces. Working largely on a military base, she divided her time between cardiology and pediatric clinics.

The experience introduced her to different specialties and the training paths leading to them. It also gave her a closer look at how healthcare serves military personnel and their families.

Senior Roshika Chhetri said Singh hopes to become a physician and has the empathy needed to succeed. Portnoy likewise praised Singh’s compassion, noting that she is quick to assist classmates who struggle during lessons or laboratory work.

Singh said the Medical Assisting program has become one of the highlights of her high school experience. By showing her what work in medicine is actually like, the course has strengthened her confidence about pursuing healthcare after graduation.