From the Classroom to the OR: Ready to Make a Difference
For Taejauna “Tae” Spearman, the road to a career in surgical technology wasn’t straight—it was a winding path filled with challenges, determination, and self-discovery. Now in the final stretch of Cleveland Community College’s Surgical Technology program, Tae is preparing to graduate in May with an Associate in Applied Science in Surgical Technology and an Associate in Arts in General Education. Her story is one of perseverance, passion, and purpose.
Taking the Leap
As a first-generation college student, Tae wasn’t sure what to expect when she applied to Cleveland Community College. In fact, her decision to apply was almost spontaneous.
“I told myself I’m going to randomly apply,” she recalls. “I took off from there.”
But shortly after applying, she learned she was pregnant. The news brought a flood of emotions—excitement, fear, and uncertainty. After giving birth via C-section and facing health complications with her newborn, Tae considered withdrawing. But thanks to unwavering support from CCC faculty, she kept going.
“The faculty worked with me every step of the way,” she says. “They wanted me to succeed, and that made all the difference.”
Discovering Her Passion for Surgical Technology
Tae’s path to surgical technology wasn’t immediate. She changed her major three times, considering nursing and radiography before discovering her true calling. While preparing for the TEAS exam, anxiety set in—so she paused and did more research.
“The more I learned about surgical technology, the more I realized—this is it. This is where I belong.”
Her passion goes far beyond career aspirations. For Tae, it’s about being a part of something bigger: patient care.
“Being part of the opportunity to change a life is what drives me,” she explains. “It’s more than passing instruments to a surgeon. You have to understand anatomy, react quickly, and stay focused. It’s about saving lives.”
Hands-On Learning That Builds Confidence
Cleveland Community College’s hands-on approach gave Tae critical experience—from observing live surgeries to scrubbing in and assisting in real operating rooms.
“They let me get involved in different aspects of healthcare. I got to go into Labor and Delivery, scrub in, and really experience the OR firsthand. The technology, the training—it’s what sets CCC apart. They support all healthcare programs equally.”
Before entering the program, Tae considered herself shy. Now, she says, she’s a different person.
“I’ve come out of my shell. I feel ready to step into my career and make an impact.”
A Bright Future in Healthcare
After graduation, Tae will begin her career in the operating room at Atrium Health Cleveland. But she’s not stopping there—her ultimate goal is to work with LifeShare, an organ procurement organization.
“That’s the best thing ever,” she says. “Just seeing all the organs, understanding how the human body works—it’s a life-changing experience.”
Tae also hopes to become a preceptor to help mentor new surgical technology students in the future.
“I want to help new students the way I was helped. It makes such a difference.”
Advice for Future CCC Students
Tae encourages anyone unsure about college or their career path to stay curious and take chances.
“Always do your research. Don’t spend years doing something you don’t love. Don’t let doubt hold you back—you’ll miss out if you don’t take the shot. Even if you didn’t enjoy high school, college is different. You can find something that fits you.”
Looking Ahead
Taejauna Spearman’s story is proof that challenges don’t have to be roadblocks—they can be stepping stones. From personal setbacks to professional breakthroughs, her journey reflects the power of resilience and purpose.
“If you step out on a limb and believe in yourself,” she says, “I promise the outcome will be better than you imagined.”
With her drive and dedication, Tae is ready to make a lasting impact in the field of surgical technology—and in the lives of every patient she serves.