High School Students Earn College Medical Office Technology Certificates Before Graduation

CALAIS MAINE – Two outstanding students, Zoey Boothby and Elizabeth “Ellie” Busque, have achieved an impressive academic milestone by earning their Medical Office Technology (MOT) certificates through Washington County Community College while still attending high school. Both students began this ambitious journey during their junior year through their participation with United Technologies Center (UTC).

Zoey Boothby, a student at Hermon High School and UTC, pursued the Medical Office Technology certificate to support her future goals in healthcare.

“I chose to pursue the Medical Office Technology certificate while attending high school and UTC because it will support my future career as a Medical Assistant and Dental Hygienist,” said Boothby. “I am excited because this certificate will strengthen my future job applications and help make me a competitive candidate.”

Following graduation, Boothby plans to continue her education by earning her bachelor’s degree in Dental Hygiene while also completing the remaining requirements for an associate degree in Medical Assisting.

Boothby shared that one of the most valuable aspects of the early college experience was gaining firsthand exposure to college expectations.

“The best part of the early college experience was receiving a real-world understanding of what college is like,” she said. “I learned many valuable lessons early, including how to communicate with professors, what to expect from online college classes, and how to successfully navigate college life in general.”

Elizabeth “Ellie” Busque, a student at Brewer High School and UTC, said the opportunity to earn a college certificate while still in high school was an easy decision.

“I chose to pursue the Medical Office Technology certificate while still in high school because the opportunity was a no-brainer,” said Busque. “Putting in just a little extra effort for such a significant payoff was one of the easiest decisions I’ve made, especially with the support system that comes from being a high school student.”

After graduation, Busque plans to attend Maine College of Health Professions to study sonography and hopes to use her Medical Office Technology certificate while continuing her education.

Reflecting on her experience, Busque said the achievement brought both personal pride and gratitude.

“I most enjoyed the feeling of success that came with accomplishing something out of the ordinary,” she said. “But more than anything, I appreciated the people who supported and encouraged me throughout the process. From instructors and advisors to family members and classmates, having people who believed in me made the experience even more meaningful and helped me stay motivated every step of the way.”

The success of Boothby and Busque demonstrates the impact of dual enrollment and career-focused education opportunities available through UTC and Washington County Community College. By beginning their college journeys early, both students have gained valuable experience, earned industry-recognized credentials, and taken significant steps toward their future healthcare careers.