Evolving as a professional in the business of healthcare

Q: What was your background before pursuing your MBA?

A: I completed my undergraduate degree on a pre-med track, which ended up not being a great fit for me. After reassessing my career goals, I joined Dana-Farber as a clinical research coordinator after college and decided to take additional post-baccalaureate pre-medical classes at Northeastern University to explore a nursing degree. After finishing those classes, I was promoted to a clinical research manager at my job and really enjoyed management. I led a team, worked with various departments, and gained insights into healthcare management. I took every opportunity to learn about business and its intersections with healthcare.

Q: Why did you decide to pursue your MBA?  

A: After my first semester of courses in the Graduate Certificate in Business Administration, I realized how much I enjoyed the coursework and returning to an academic setting after nearly a decade. My decision to apply those credits directly to the Part-Time MBA stemmed from my desire to advance professionally, and my commitment to lifelong learning, allowing me to grow intellectually and achieve my career ambitions.  

At Dana-Farber, I became intrigued by healthcare institutions' broader operational and managerial aspects. My responsibilities for team leadership, budgeting, and contract management sparked my curiosity about business. 

As I transitioned to a similar role at GlaxoSmithKline, I discovered that working in a larger, global company presented new challenges and opportunities. I was promoted to Associate Director within two years of starting, which further reinforced my thought that earning an MBA would directly benefit my career growth and help me effectively navigate the complexities of the corporate world. 

I chose to study part-time so I could apply what I was learning to my work right away. The flexibility of the D'Amore-McKim MBA allowed me to set my own pace and continue working in the career I love.  

Q: What made the D'Amore-McKim MBA a fit for you? 

A: The main reason I chose D'Amore-McKim was the healthcare administration concentration, which was a perfect fit for my career goals. The flexibility and variety of elective courses allowed me to customize my studies to align with my goals, a feature that was lacking at the other schools I considered.

I knew the quality of education and the vibrant campus atmosphere from my experience in the Certificate program.  

The robust alumni network and opportunities for lifelong connections with other Northeastern MBAs and faculty convinced me that the D'Amore-McKim MBA was the right choice. These connections and the Northeastern reputation are invaluable and will enhance my future career prospects. 

Q: Are you applying what you learn on the job? 

A: In my career, I've developed a deep understanding of healthcare operations and patient care. My MBA has helped me build new knowledge aligned with my field and exposed me to other business areas that make me a better leader and influencer.  

The healthcare administration courses expanded my outlook with valuable insights into healthcare management and operations. Through my international business course, I've gained a deeper understanding of GlaxoSmithKline's global operations. This has enhanced my ability to navigate the complexities of international markets and contribute effectively to strategic decision-making within the company.  

I'm gaining new insights into other business areas like finance and marketing. The HR management class has influenced how I lead my team. The D'Amore-McKim MBA is already helping me make an impact.  

Q: How has your network changed because of your MBA?  

A: Meeting people from different backgrounds in my classes has definitely contributed to expanding my network. The Graduate Career Center also organizes networking opportunities that exposed me to diverse perspectives, which is invaluable for career growth. Connecting with professionals from different backgrounds has broadened my understanding of how businesses operate and inspired me to think more strategically.  

KEEP EXPLORING

Nurse turned MBA works in biotech during an FDA submission

“If you're going into a new industry like I am, don't be afraid of being uncomfortable because that's a part of the process.”

Healthcare analytics specialist uptakes residency in Washington, D.C.

“I had limited experience in the policy side of healthcare prior to the Washington, D.C. Residency. Now, I have a broadened perspective of the entire healthcare industry, which is extremely valuable.”

Becoming a healthcare consultant and social entrepreneur to improve global healthcare quality

“This experience showed me the true value of experiential learning; there's a significant difference between going to class and hearing about the passing of FDA approval versus being a part of it.”