My Bio: Litonya (Talitha) Thelwell

Litonya (Talitha) Thelwell is a dedicated and driven student at Bryant & Stratton College, soon to graduate with a degree in Medical Assisting. With a strong foundation in the sciences from her studies at the University at Buffalo and Buffalo State University, Talitha has combined her academic knowledge with hands-on clinical experience to prepare for a meaningful career in health care.

Born in Brooklyn, New York, and raised between Jamaica and the U.S., Talitha is fluent in Patwa and English, with a working understanding of Spanish. Her multicultural upbringing has shaped her adaptability, cultural sensitivity, and ability to connect with diverse communities.

Talitha has excelled academically, earning multiple Dean’s List honors and receiving the prestigious FLPSS grant at Bryant & Stratton, which fully supports her tuition. She serves as a Student Ambassador, developing leadership, communication, and mentoring skills while helping guide prospective students.

Passionate about lifelong learning and professional growth, Talitha’s short-term goal is to become a Certified Clinical Medical Assistant (CCMA), with long-term aspirations of becoming an Ultrasound Technician. She also has entrepreneurial ambitions, including real estate investment and establishing a family-owned all-inclusive resort in Jamaica.

Outside of her academic and professional pursuits, Talitha is a talented musician, an avid traveler, and a goal-driven individual who strives for excellence in everything she does. Her blend of intelligence, creativity, and determination makes her a remarkable emerging professional in health care and beyond.

Me (.jpeg) 0.38mb

Goals (Personal & Professional): Litonya (Talitha) Thelwell
A long-term goal of mine is to invest in and develop a large, modern, all-inclusive resort in Jamaica, creating a family-owned business. This goal reflects my desire to honor my family roots while building a sustainable business that provides employment opportunities and supports tourism in the region. By planning, investing, and managing this venture, I aim to combine entrepreneurship with community development, create a legacy for my family, and establish a strong foundation for future generations. This goal complements my professional aspirations in health care and personal growth by promoting leadership, financial planning, and strategic development skills.

Goals (Personal & Professional): Litonya (Talitha) Thelwell
One of my long-term goals is to build a career in real estate by buying, selling, and renting properties, including using platforms like Airbnb. This goal reflects my interest in entrepreneurship, financial independence, and wealth-building strategies. By learning the real estate market, managing properties, and developing strong business skills, I aim to create multiple income streams and achieve long-term financial stability while balancing my healthcare career.

Goals (Personal & Professional): Litonya (Talitha) Thelwell
My ongoing goal is to become the best at whatever I do, striving for excellence in all aspects of my personal, educational, and professional life. This includes mastering my skills as a Medical Assistant, earning CCMA certification, advancing toward a career as an Ultrasound Technician, and approaching all tasks with dedication, focus, and continuous improvement. This goal reflects my commitment to high standards, lifelong learning, and achieving success through hard work, persistence, and professionalism.

Goals (Personal & Professional): Litonya (Talitha) Thelwell
One of my personal goals is to purchase my first car next year. Achieving this goal will provide greater independence, mobility, and flexibility, supporting both my personal life and professional commitments. Owning a vehicle will make commuting to work, school, and clinical rotations easier, allowing me to focus on my career development and educational goals. This goal reflects my commitment to responsibility, planning, and achieving milestones that enhance my personal and professional growth

Goals (Personal & Professional): Litonya (Talitha) Thelwell

One of my personal and professional goals is to relocate from New York to a warmer state such as Florida, Georgia, or California. This move aligns with my desire for new experiences, lifestyle changes, and professional growth opportunities in the healthcare field. Relocating will allow me to expand my career network, explore diverse clinical environments, and continue advancing toward my long-term goals as a Certified Clinical Medical Assistant and future Ultrasound Technician.

Goals (Personal & Professional): Litonya (Talitha) Thelwell
My long-term goal is to become a skilled Ultrasound Technician. I plan to build on my medical assisting education by pursuing further training in diagnostic medical sonography, gaining hands-on experience, and obtaining professional certification. Achieving this goal will allow me to perform ultrasound imaging safely and accurately, assist in diagnosing medical conditions, and contribute to high-quality patient care. This goal reflects my dedication to expanding my clinical expertise, advancing in the health care field, and providing compassionate, professional support to patients.

Goals (Personal & Professional): Litonya (Talitha) Thelwell

My short-term goal is to successfully graduate from Bryant & Stratton College with a Medical Assisting degree. Following graduation, I plan to prepare for and pass the CCMA (Certified Clinical Medical Assistant) exam to earn professional certification. Achieving this credential will validate my clinical knowledge, skills, and professionalism, enabling me to provide high-quality patient care and advance my career in the healthcare field. This goal reflects my commitment to lifelong learning, competence in clinical procedures, and dedication to serving patients safely and effectively.

Cultural Background: Litonya (Talitha) Thelwell
I was born in Brooklyn, New York, and moved to Jamaica with my parents at age three to begin school. Growing up in Jamaica, I spoke Patwa, the official language, and fully experienced Jamaican culture, traditions, and community life. Throughout this time, I frequently traveled between Jamaica and the U.S., maintaining close ties with my extended family in the States. At age eight, I moved back to the U.S. permanently and settled in Buffalo, New York. The transition was initially a culture shock, but I adapted and gained a unique perspective by experiencing and appreciating both Jamaican and American cultures. This dual-cultural upbringing has shaped my worldview, strengthened my adaptability, and enhanced my ability to connect with diverse communities.

Languages Spoken / Skills: Litonya (Talitha) Thelwell

• Medical & Clinical Skills: Proficient in vital signs, patient care, clinical procedures, specimen collection, and electronic health records management.

• Technical & Computing Skills: Skilled in Microsoft Office (Word, Excel, PowerPoint), EHR software, and general computer applications for administrative and professional tasks.

• Communication & Interpersonal Skills: Strong verbal and written communication, cultural sensitivity, and ability to work effectively with diverse patients and teams.

• Organizational & Problem-Solving Skills: Experienced in managing time, multitasking, and adapting to new environments while maintaining professionalism.

Languages Spoken / Skills: Litonya (Talitha) Thelwell

• Patwa (Jamaican Creole): Native language, spoken fluently since early childhood and used in daily communication and cultural settings.

• English: Fluent in reading, writing, and speaking; primary language for education, professional, and social interactions.

• Spanish: Conversational understanding, especially receptive skills (listening and reading), influenced by my godmother, who is Puerto Rican. I can communicate basic ideas in Spanish, though speaking fluently is a work in progress.

Educational Background: Litonya (Talitha) Thelwell
Pursuing a career in medical assisting with hands-on training in clinical procedures, medical office systems, electronic health records, and patient care. Developed practical skills in patient interaction, professionalism, and medical knowledge in preparation for entering the health care workforce.

Educational Background: Litonya (Talitha) Thelwell
Continued in-depth study of biological sciences, including anatomy, physiology, and microbiology. Engaged in laboratory experiments, research projects, and group studies to strengthen analytical skills and scientific knowledge.

Educational Background: Litonya (Talitha) Thelwell

Studied foundational courses in biology, chemistry, and laboratory techniques. Gained experience in scientific research, critical thinking, and problem-solving, laying the groundwork for a career in health care and life sciences.

 

Educational Background: Litonya (Talitha) Thelwell
I completed high school with a focus on music and developed creativity, discipline, and performance skills. Participated in school choirs, concerts, and music-related projects, building teamwork and dedication.

Courses Taken: Litonya (Talitha) Thelwell

Anatomy and Physiology II is a continuation of A&P I, focusing on the remaining body systems and how they function together to maintain health. The course typically covers the endocrine, cardiovascular, lymphatic, respiratory, digestive, urinary, and reproductive systems.

Students study the structure and function of organs, system interactions, and processes that support homeostasis. Laboratory work often includes dissections, microscope observations, and model-based exercises to reinforce understanding.

By the end of A&P II, students have a comprehensive understanding of the human body’s major systems and their interrelationships. This knowledge is essential for careers in health care, nursing, medical assisting, and other medical professions.

Courses Taken: Litonya (Talitha) Thelwell

The Medical Laboratory course introduces students to basic laboratory skills and techniques used in health care settings. Students learn how to collect, handle, and analyze various specimens such as blood, urine, and other body fluids.

The course covers laboratory safety, infection control, proper use of lab equipment, and accurate recording of test results. Students also learn common lab tests, their purposes, and how results support diagnosis and patient care.

By the end of the course, students gain hands-on experience and the knowledge needed to perform routine laboratory procedures safely and accurately, preparing them for careers in medical assisting, phlebotomy, or other clinical roles.

Courses Taken: Litonya (Talitha) Thelwell

The Pharmacology course introduces students to the study of drugs and their effects on the human body. It covers how medications work, how they are administered, and how they are used to treat or manage diseases.

Students learn about drug classifications, common medications, dosages, routes of administration, side effects, and interactions. The course also emphasizes safe medication practices, legal regulations, and patient education.

By the end of the course, students gain a strong understanding of how medications affect the body and how to safely support patients in a health care setting. This knowledge is essential for careers in nursing, medical assisting, and other health care professions.

Courses Taken: Litonya (Talitha) Thelwell

The Health Care Reimbursement and Billing course teaches students how medical services are billed and paid within the health care system. It focuses on understanding insurance plans, coding systems, and reimbursement procedures used by hospitals, clinics, and medical offices.

Students learn how to complete and submit insurance claims, interpret explanation of benefits (EOBs), and handle billing errors or denials. The course also covers important topics such as Medicare, Medicaid, private insurance, and managed care.

Emphasis is placed on accuracy, compliance with regulations, and patient confidentiality. By the end of the course, students are prepared to manage the financial and billing processes that keep health care facilities running smoothly and ensure proper reimbursement for medical services.

Courses Taken: Litonya (Talitha) Thelwell

Career Development II builds on the foundations learned in the first career development course. It focuses on applying career planning theories and strategies to real-world situations. Students explore advanced topics such as professional growth, goal setting, job searching, and interview techniques.

The course emphasizes creating strong résumés, cover letters, and portfolios, as well as improving communication and networking skills. Students also learn how to adapt to workplace expectations, handle challenges, and continue developing their careers after graduation.

By the end of the course, students gain a deeper understanding of how to apply career theories in practice and are better prepared to enter the workforce with confidence and professionalism.

Courses Taken: Litonya (Talitha) Thelwell

The Learning Communities course helps students build connections with classmates, instructors, and campus resources to support their academic and personal success. It focuses on developing teamwork, communication, and study skills through group projects and shared learning experiences.

Students explore topics such as goal setting, time management, critical thinking, and college success strategies. The course also encourages collaboration and peer support, creating a sense of belonging within the college environment.

By the end of the course, students gain stronger academic habits, confidence, and relationships that enhance their overall college experience and help them succeed in future courses and careers.

Courses Taken: Litonya (Talitha) Thelwell

The Workplace Mathematics course focuses on practical math skills used in everyday jobs and real-world situations. Students learn how to apply math to tasks such as budgeting, payroll, inventory management, measurements, and data interpretation.

Topics include basic arithmetic, fractions, decimals, percentages, ratios, formulas, and problem-solving. The course also covers how to read charts, graphs, and tables commonly used in workplaces.

By connecting math to real-life examples, students see how these skills support accuracy, efficiency, and decision-making on the job. By the end of the course, students develop the confidence to use math effectively in any professional or technical environment.

Courses Taken: Litonya (Talitha) Thelwell

The Computing Skills course teaches students the basic computer knowledge needed for school, work, and daily life. It covers essential topics such as using operating systems, managing files, and working with common software programs like Microsoft Word, Excel, and PowerPoint.

Students learn how to create documents, organize data, make presentations, and use the internet safely and effectively. The course also introduces email etiquette, online research, and digital communication tools used in professional settings.

By the end of the course, students gain confidence in using computers and technology to complete assignments, communicate, and solve problems efficiently, skills that are valuable in both academic and workplace environments.

Courses Taken: Litonya (Talitha) Thelwell

The Medical Terminology course introduces students to the language of health care. It focuses on understanding and using medical words that describe the human body, diseases, procedures, and treatments. Students learn how medical terms are built using word parts, prefixes, roots, and suffixes, and how to interpret their meanings.

Topics include terms related to body systems, anatomy, physiology, and common medical conditions. The course also helps students improve spelling, pronunciation, and comprehension of medical vocabulary used by doctors, nurses, and other health professionals.

By the end of the course, students can confidently understand and communicate medical information, making it easier to read charts, write reports, and interact professionally in any health care setting.

Courses Taken: Litonya (Talitha) Thelwell

College Math provides students with essential math skills needed for everyday life, further education, and many careers. The course covers a variety of practical topics such as algebra, ratios, proportions, percentages, measurements, and basic statistics. Students also learn problem-solving, logical reasoning, and how to apply math to real-world situations like budgeting, data analysis, and health care calculations.

The course builds confidence in working with numbers and helps students understand how math connects to daily decisions and professional tasks. By the end of College Math, students develop stronger critical thinking skills and a solid foundation for higher-level math or technical courses in their chosen field.

Courses Taken: Litonya (Talitha) Thelwell

The Medical Office Systems and Electronic Records course introduces students to the administrative side of health care. It focuses on how medical offices are organized and how electronic health records (EHR) are used to manage patient information.

Students learn how to schedule appointments, update patient charts, process insurance claims, and maintain accurate records using modern EHR software. The course also covers medical billing, coding basics, confidentiality (HIPAA), and communication within a medical office.

By combining computer skills with knowledge of office procedures, students gain the ability to handle both administrative and electronic record tasks efficiently. By the end of the course, students are prepared to support smooth operations in medical offices, clinics, or other health care facilities.

Courses Taken: Litonya (Talitha) Thelwell

The Clinical Procedures course teaches students the essential hands-on skills needed to work safely and effectively in a medical setting. It focuses on the daily tasks medical assistants and other health care professionals perform when caring for patients.

Students learn how to take vital signs, prepare patients for exams, assist with minor procedures, perform injections, collect and process laboratory specimens, and maintain sterile technique. The course also covers infection control, patient education, documentation, and safety practices.

Through classroom instruction and lab practice, students gain confidence and experience performing clinical duties while maintaining professionalism and compassion. By the end of the course, students are prepared to support physicians and nurses in patient care and to apply their clinical skills in real-world health care environments.

Courses Taken: Litonya (Talitha) Thelwell

Anatomy and Physiology I is an introductory college course that explores the structure and function of the human body. Students learn how the body’s organs and systems work together to maintain health and balance (homeostasis). The course begins with basic topics such as body organization, anatomical terminology, chemistry of life, and cell structure.

It then focuses on major body systems, including the integumentary (skin), skeletal, muscular, and nervous systems. Students study how these systems function, interact, and respond to changes in the environment. Laboratory sessions often include hands-on activities like microscope work, model identification, and dissections to reinforce learning.

Courses Taken: Litonya (Talitha) Thelwell

This college course provides a basic understanding of the health care field and its many career opportunities. Students learn about the structure of the health care system, different types of medical facilities, and the roles of various health care professionals. The course also covers essential topics such as patient rights, confidentiality (HIPAA), communication skills, ethics, teamwork, and cultural sensitivity in health care settings.

Students are introduced to medical terminology, health care laws, safety practices, and infection control. The goal is to help students build a strong foundation for working in health care and to prepare them for more advanced courses in their chosen medical field. By the end of the course, students gain knowledge, professionalism, and confidence to begin pursuing a career in the healthcare industry.

 

 

Assignments: Litonya (Talitha) Thelwell
Clinical Procedures (.doc) 0.07mb

Continuing Education (CE, CME, CEU...): Litonya (Talitha) Thelwell
Learned the basics of ultrasound technology, instrumentation, and imaging principles.

Grants: Litonya (Talitha) Thelwell
I am a recipient of the FLPSS (Full Tuition Scholarship) grant at Bryant & Stratton College, which covers the full cost of my tuition. This grant is awarded to students who demonstrate exceptional academic performance, dedication, and the ability to complete their program on time. Unlike my experiences at larger universities, this grant provides comprehensive financial support while motivating me to maintain high academic standards. I have excelled under this program, staying on track to graduate on time, and it has been instrumental in allowing me to focus fully on my Medical Assisting education and professional goals.

Honors & Awards: Litonya (Talitha) Thelwell
Earned Dean’s List honors while pursuing a Medical Assisting degree, reflecting dedication, strong academic achievement, and commitment to professional growth Dean & I (.jpeg) 0.16mb

Honors & Awards: Litonya (Talitha) Thelwell
Earned Dean’s List honors while pursuing a Medical Assisting degree, reflecting dedication, strong academic achievement, and commitment to professional growth Deans Award (.jpeg) 2.37mb

Honors & Awards: Litonya (Talitha) Thelwell
Earned Dean’s List honors while pursuing a Medical Assisting degree, reflecting dedication, strong academic achievement, and commitment to professional growth Honor Society (.jpeg) 0.38mb

Academic Service: Litonya (Talitha) Thelwell
Serving as a Student Ambassador at Bryant & Stratton College, I represent the school to prospective students, families, and the community. My role includes providing campus tours, sharing personal experiences, assisting with college events, and supporting student engagement initiatives. This position has strengthened my leadership, communication, and public speaking skills while allowing me to contribute positively to the college community and help others navigate their educational journeys.

Resume & CV: Litonya (Talitha) Thelwell
251030121711_NOW_RESUME_2025_litonya_thelwell_.pdf (.pdf) 0.04mb