Bella (Isabella) Cressman, a dedicated senior at Boyertown High School and Berks Career and Technology Center’s (BCTC) Health Occupations Program, is making every moment of her final year count, balancing leadership roles, academics, and hands-on healthcare experience. Her passion for serving others and her community is reflected in her many activities, as she prepares for a bright future in the healthcare field.
At Boyertown High School, Bella serves on the Student Council and is a member of Link Crew, assisting incoming students with the transition to high school life. Her leadership also extends beyond school, where she coaches second-grade cheerleading, mentoring young athletes in teamwork and confidence.
In her pursuit of a healthcare career, Bella is excelling in BCTC’s Health Occupations program. She is currently preparing for her Nurse Aide Training certification, which will qualify her to provide essential care in a variety of healthcare settings. Her passion and dedication to the field are further highlighted by her role as President of HOSA Future Health Professionals at BCTC West Campus, where she leads other students with a shared interest in healthcare careers.
A member of the National Technical Honor Society (NTHS), Bella has earned recognition for her academic excellence and leadership in technical education. In addition to her coursework, she participates in a Co-Op program as a Personal Care Assistant (PCA) at St. Luke’s Hospital, where she gains real-world experience by providing patient care on the Medical/Surgical floor.
Reflecting on her Co-Op experience, Bella shared, “I work on the Medical/Surgical floor, helping patients with personal grooming, helping them eat, and providing extra support for the nurses. I really enjoy getting to know my patients, listening to their stories, sharing joyful moments, and sometimes crying with them. I realize that the small gestures I can provide can make a great impact on patients and their families.” She added, “The staff at the hospital have been so welcoming and are willing to share their knowledge.”
In addition to her individual achievements, Bella and three fellow Health Occupations students recently hosted a blood drive at BCTC in partnership with Miller-Keystone Blood Center. This initiative, part of their senior project, was a huge success, collecting 41 units of blood for the local community on October 3, 2024. Bella’s leadership and commitment to service were on full display as she worked alongside her peers to make a meaningful impact on the lives of those in need.
Reflecting on her decision to pursue a career in healthcare, Bella stated, “I always knew I wanted to do something in the medical field, then I heard about BCTC and being able to earn the Nurse Aide Training certification after three years. It was a step in the right direction and entry into the field.” For students who may be interested in a healthcare career, Bella advises, “Start somewhere. You aren’t going to jump into surgery; you must have a foundation in anatomy and physiology, patient care skills, and be able to learn to adapt to patients’ needs and their environment. Showing up prepared with a positive attitude is just as important.”
Bella’s compassionate approach to patient care and her eagerness to learn from experienced professionals make her a standout student, both in her academic work and in the healthcare field. As she continues to make every moment of her senior year count, she is laying the foundation for a successful and impactful career in healthcare.