From Uncertainty to Impact: How Propel Fellow Shalani Sayas Launched Her Medical Career at Temple Health
When you meet Shalani Sayas, one of the first things you notice is her warmth—closely followed by her determination. As a young mother balancing responsibility, ambition, and self-discovery, Shalani’s journey to becoming a Certified Clinical Medical Assistant (CCMA) wasn’t linear. Before she joined Propel America’s Fall 2024 Medical Assistant cohort in Philadelphia, she was searching not only for a career path that felt right, but one that could provide stability and a fulfilling future for her family.
Watch: Shalani Sayas shares her journey through Propel America’s fellowship program, to become a Certified Medical Assistant with Temple Health. This video was prepared by Philadelphia Works.
Shalani began her post-secondary journey in nursing school, hopeful but soon uncertain. She wasn’t finding the support she needed to envision herself thriving in that environment, especially while navigating the demands of motherhood. Trusting her instincts, she made a bold decision to step away and explore new opportunities. She discovered a training program that reignited her interest in healthcare, and connected her to Propel America and the CHCP CCMA program back in Philadelphia.
Once she learned about Propel America, Shalani took a leap—applying, interviewing, and earning her spot in the Medical Assistant training pathway. Through the program, she not only strengthened her clinical skills, but also developed the interpersonal and professional abilities essential for building a meaningful career. “They provided outreach for me to excel in interpersonal as well as general skills,” she reflected. “Not just in healthcare, but how I operate in the society that we are in.” For Shalani, the program was more than training—it was a holistic support system that understood her goals and the realities of being a working mother.
Shalani’s dedication did not go unnoticed. Her Hire Ready Coach, Ariel Amaya, nominated her for the “Most Outstanding Fellow” recognition because of her exceptional performance throughout the program. Shalani maintained high grades in all CHCP courses, demonstrated strong engagement and attendance across all Propel professional development and coaching sessions, and excelled in her externship. Ariel shared, “She was my first Fellow hired from the cohort as a result of all these things.” Her consistency, grit, and passion for learning set her apart as a role model for her peers.
“Shalani also credits her Propel coach, Ariel, as a guiding presence throughout the journey. Having a coach who saw her potential and encouraged her through challenges made a world of difference. “He was truly a little light in the darkness,” she shared. “I wouldn’t expect such support from any other program.””
One of the most transformative parts of her experience was her externship. Shalani describes it as “beautifully amazing”—a clinical environment where she was welcomed, mentored, and encouraged to step confidently into her new role as a CCMA. Her coworkers became lasting friends, and even after completing her rotation, she continued to receive support from the individuals who helped shape her early hands-on experience in patient care. The externship wasn’t just a requirement—it became a community that embraced her as both a future healthcare professional and a parent striving toward a better life.
Shalani also credits her Propel coach, Ariel, as a guiding presence throughout the journey. She recalls moments when balancing life, school, training, and motherhood felt overwhelming. Having a coach who saw her potential and encouraged her through challenges made a world of difference. “He was truly a little light in the darkness,” she shared. “They have literally been little angels… I wouldn’t expect such support from any other program.”
By September 2025, Shalani had reached a major milestone: she was hired by Temple Health, joining a team where she continues to grow her skills and serve patients with care and compassion. She now works alongside a physician she deeply respects and has found not only a workplace, but a space to continue developing her career. With eyes toward the future, she is already planning her next step. Within the next year, she aims to pursue a dual role that allows her to enter the OB/GYN field—an area she feels called to, especially as a mother with a passion for women’s health.
Grateful for the foundation she built through Propel America, Shalani proudly calls herself a lifelong ambassador for the program. She believes in its mission because she’s living proof of what’s possible when young adults—and young parents—are supported, believed in, and given pathways into careers that offer stability and purpose. “It was a godsend, a blessing,” she said. “Don’t worry—you’re going to succeed.”
Shalani’s story is a powerful reminder that success isn’t about having a straight path—it’s about having the courage to pivot, to pursue opportunities that align with your purpose, and to accept support along the way. With perseverance, community, and a clear vision for her future and her family, Shalani transformed uncertainty into a career that makes an impact every day.
Ready to launch your own career in healthcare?
If Shalani’s story inspires you, take the next step. Propel America’s Medical Assistant program offers coaching, tuition-free training, and pathways to rewarding healthcare careers—just like the one Shalani built.
Applications are now open.
Start your journey toward becoming a Certified Medical Assistant and building a career you can be proud of.
