Ever since she was young, Shavon Harshaw wanted a medical career.

Initially she was interested in becoming a pediatrician but then switched to nursing.

“When I experienced several different specialties as a CNA, I started my career thinking that I wanted to be a nurse,” she said. “After falling into the field of urology and occasionally assisting with minor surgeries in our office and at our surgical center, I fell in love with surgery.”  

She extensively researched accredited Surgical Technology programs in the area and discovered College of DuPage by far offered the best one. While at COD, she received The Paul and Katherine Hedburn Scholarship from the COD Foundation, further helping her pursue her goals.

“It was an honor to receive this scholarship,” she said. “It helped tremendously, as I am a single mother and at that time had to minimize my work hours to fulfill the requirements of the program.” 

Harshaw earned an Associate in Applied Science degree in Surgical Technology and then took her education one step further by completing her certification in Surgical First Assistant. She loves her career and the direction that it is taking.

“I have had the amazing experience of working with some of the most reputable plastic surgeons in Chicago,” she said. “In addition, I recently landed an opportunity to work in a private orthopedic practice with a newly established upper extremity surgeon. Ultimately, I would love to get back into plastic surgery, as this is my passion. My five- to 10-year goal would be to become a professor and help future surgical technologists and surgical first assistants.”

Harshaw is returning to COD to update her prerequisites for the Nursing program. Having fulfilled her childhood goal of a medical career, she thanks COD for providing her the necessary skills and advises anyone to take advantage of the many opportunities offered at the College.

“Never, ever think that you are too old to continue your education. Your dreams are achievable and obtainable,” she said. “COD helped me by having the most supportive professors and preceptors. To this day, I can call on (Professor) Ranzie (Wilson) or any of the other instructors at any time for advice or guidance.” 

Learn more about the Surgical First Assistant program at College of DuPage