More Student Profiles . . .
I have always been interested in the intersection of science and business. While in high school, I began to think actively about what career opportunities might best fit my personal interests and strengths. A career survey suggested, among other fields, health administration. I spoke with the CEOs of Evergreen and Overlake hospitals and was intrigued by their impressions of their work. I studied public health as an undergraduate at the University of Washington, and consistently made goals around my application to the UW MHA Program.
What was your undergraduate major?
I finished my undergraduate education with a BA in German area studies and a BS in public health. My intent in studying these different disciplines was to challenge myself intellectually in both liberal arts and sciences; I was eager for a well-rounded collegiate education, but still intended to fulfill academic prerequisites for a career in health services.
What work experience did you have before coming to the UW MHA Program?
My first work experience relative to health care was as a volunteer at Evergreen Hospital Medical Center in Kirkland, Washington. I worked as an information desk greeter and learned much about how a health care organization operates. I also worked as an accounting assistant, volunteer coordinator/Americorps VISTA at the International Rescue Committee, and as an administrative coordinator at a small physical rehabilitation clinic.
What do you feel are the strengths of the UW MHA Program?
The UW MHA Program is a true learning lab. After my first quarter of working with the faculty and my peers I feel completely comfortable both socially and academically. Our curriculum is organized in a synchronized manner and with a clear intent bent towards transparency, as per the educational philosophy of the department. The emphasis on self reflection, critical thinking, and teamwork during the first quarter has me excited about the technical aspects of our study.
Are there any outstanding or unique experiences that you would like to share regarding the UW MHA Program?
My first quarter has encouraged and pushed me to consider my convictions and ideologies more critically. It is really exciting to see the knowledge and skills to which I have been exposed changing my attitudes and values. The UW MHA Program provides a curriculum that emphasizes complementary knowledge and skill sets that empower students to take charge of their learning process. This educational program is, for this reason, exceptionally unique; I have never participated in another program like it.
What goals do you plan to pursue for your career in health care management?
I wish to pursue a career that incorporates one or more of the following subjects: community/public health, integrative medicine (non-conventional and conventional medicine used in a complementary fashion), public health, and health care policy.
Is there anything you would like to share about your experience as a student at the University of Washington?
I find the natural beauty of the University of Washington campus, and the greater Seattle area, to be a welcome diversion from the academic rigor of my program. Catching a glimpse of Mt. Rainier while on a study break makes me appreciate my school more than ever.
Student Profile
Nelly Gozdek: MHA Candidate, 2010
What brought you to the UW MHA Program?I have always been interested in the intersection of science and business. While in high school, I began to think actively about what career opportunities might best fit my personal interests and strengths. A career survey suggested, among other fields, health administration. I spoke with the CEOs of Evergreen and Overlake hospitals and was intrigued by their impressions of their work. I studied public health as an undergraduate at the University of Washington, and consistently made goals around my application to the UW MHA Program.
What was your undergraduate major?
I finished my undergraduate education with a BA in German area studies and a BS in public health. My intent in studying these different disciplines was to challenge myself intellectually in both liberal arts and sciences; I was eager for a well-rounded collegiate education, but still intended to fulfill academic prerequisites for a career in health services.
What work experience did you have before coming to the UW MHA Program?
My first work experience relative to health care was as a volunteer at Evergreen Hospital Medical Center in Kirkland, Washington. I worked as an information desk greeter and learned much about how a health care organization operates. I also worked as an accounting assistant, volunteer coordinator/Americorps VISTA at the International Rescue Committee, and as an administrative coordinator at a small physical rehabilitation clinic.
What do you feel are the strengths of the UW MHA Program?
The UW MHA Program is a true learning lab. After my first quarter of working with the faculty and my peers I feel completely comfortable both socially and academically. Our curriculum is organized in a synchronized manner and with a clear intent bent towards transparency, as per the educational philosophy of the department. The emphasis on self reflection, critical thinking, and teamwork during the first quarter has me excited about the technical aspects of our study.
Are there any outstanding or unique experiences that you would like to share regarding the UW MHA Program?
My first quarter has encouraged and pushed me to consider my convictions and ideologies more critically. It is really exciting to see the knowledge and skills to which I have been exposed changing my attitudes and values. The UW MHA Program provides a curriculum that emphasizes complementary knowledge and skill sets that empower students to take charge of their learning process. This educational program is, for this reason, exceptionally unique; I have never participated in another program like it.
What goals do you plan to pursue for your career in health care management?
I wish to pursue a career that incorporates one or more of the following subjects: community/public health, integrative medicine (non-conventional and conventional medicine used in a complementary fashion), public health, and health care policy.
Is there anything you would like to share about your experience as a student at the University of Washington?
I find the natural beauty of the University of Washington campus, and the greater Seattle area, to be a welcome diversion from the academic rigor of my program. Catching a glimpse of Mt. Rainier while on a study break makes me appreciate my school more than ever.