Marlee Hansen has served on BV Derm’s clinical team as a medical assistant since 2021. She was recently accepted to the Doctor of Osteopathic Medicine (DO) program at Rocky Vista University in Parker, Colorado. Marlee expects to graduate in 2028.

What is the most important thing you learned during your time as a MA?

The most important thing I learned is how to be patient facing and how to handle difficult situations. I didn't have any kind of medical experience, so it was important to see how to handle different situations. BV Derm has three different patient populations in our three locations. I have a minor in Spanish, and we see a lot of Spanish speaking patients. So, I have been able to use that in a practice setting which is super helpful.

What made you want to go back to school at this point in your life?

Ever since I was in high school, I knew I wanted to go on to work in medicine. I had gotten my undergraduate degree in Biochemistry and then I needed to figure out where I wanted to take it. For me, I wanted to be in a leadership position, and I think medical school is a good place to do that. Also to be able to practice leadership with empathy.

Do you have any memories you'd like to share about your time with BVDerm?

Some of my fondest memories are of the relationships I have had with the other medical assistants. Many of us that work at BVDerm are close, both inside the office and out. We have done a lot of things together; we go on trips together. These are my lifelong friends.

What did you learn from the team at BV Derm?

I think the biggest thing I learned is seeing how different positions in medicine can interact well – physicians, PAs, medical assistants. Everyone is respectful, everyone works well together, there is no superiority complex.

What challenges do you think you will face in the next few years?

I think the biggest thing with going back to school will be the adjustment. The content I will be learning in school might not be that hard but the volume of it will. Just being able to navigate everything will be the biggest challenge.

What inspires you?

My biggest inspiration is probably my family. They have supported me a lot. My dad only went to high school. My mom wanted to go further in a heath specialty, but she never got the chance because of her family circumstances at the time. My parents are 100% behind me – whatever I need, they are there to support my profession.

What are your hobbies and passions, outside of school and work?

I am big into skiing. I have skied since I was 3 years old. I do a lot of paddleboarding and hiking. I have a Corgi, she’s 5 years old. I taught her to balance and do yoga on the paddleboard with me. I love all kinds of outdoor activities.