Meet Melanie: Family Inspired Her to Attend HACC, Pursue Medical Career

Date published: March 25, 2024

 York, PA


I already feel twice as motivated to study as I did in high school."


While Melanie Svistunova's desire to attend HACC dates back to a family tour of the Harrisburg Campus in 2017, her interest strengthened as she learned more about the College through her brother Victor. During holiday breaks in Cape Verde, Victor would regale his family with stories of his inspirational professors and how they had encouraged him to pursue a career in medicine.

Through these visits, Melanie also observed something new in Victor: a deep passion for education. This encouraged her to attend HACC, too. "Through my brother, HACC has taught me that there doesn't need to be an extrinsic reason to do your job, but simply because you love it. I want to directly experience what my brother did. That is why I chose HACC."

In fall 2023, Melanie, a triplet, started her coursework in the College’s Biology Program at the York Campus alongside her sisters Maira and Melissa. At the time, she said, "I haven't been here for long, almost two months, but I already feel twice as motivated to study as I did in high school."

Melanie is also benefiting from HACC's highly skilled and dedicated faculty. "I have noticed that they are very passionate about what they do," she said. "It is a huge motivator to keep doing my best. I believe nothing is more admirable than a passionate person. Every day in class, I can look at my professors and, in a way, see who I want to become."

After graduating from HACC, Melanie wants to transfer to a university to earn a bachelor's degree and conduct research to enhance her knowledge. Her ultimate goal is to begin a career in the medical field, like her brother.

In the future, Melanie also hopes to give back, especially to her parents. "I believe being a triplet really shaped me into who I am today. I am a hardworking person because I want to be independent and give back to my parents everything they have ever provided for us. Being parents of triplets is not easy!"

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