Master of Healthcare Administration Alumni Interview - Lauren Williams
What year did you graduate?
I graduated with my MHA in August 2022.
Who is your current employer and what is your title?
I currently am the Physician Network Administrative Fellow at Maimonides Medical Center.
What led you to Concordia University Irvine?
I received my undergrad at Concordia University Portland. I wanted to stay at a university system that followed similar values to my own and had an MHA program. I really enjoyed the people that I talked to in my initial admissions conversations. The University made me feel welcomed.
What is one thing you valued the most about your time at Concordia?
I think the connections I created. Being an online student, it can be hard to form relationships with peers. Concordia University Irvine gave me the opportunity to attend events on campus and off. I was supported by the university staff and created some lifelong friendships.
How did the MHA program at Concordia University Irvine prepare you for leadership roles in the healthcare industry?
Concordia University Irvine prepared me for the healthcare industry through different educational and networking opportunities. I appreciated that Concordia allowed me to attend professional events with ACHE and had the opportunity to participate in the SoCal College Bowl. Concordia University Irvine also had semester professional learning opportunities which helped develop my resume skills, practice emotional intelligence and learn to be a better leader.
Can you share an example of a project or experience from the MHA program at Concordia University Irvine that had a tangible impact on your career?
During my final project for graduation, I worked with a local healthcare system in Portland, OR developing a communication workflow. Concordia gave me key insights on how to successfully achieve this project and I was able to use my educational skills to complete the project.
What unique opportunities did the MHA program at Concordia University Irvine provide you?
I was selected to participate in the ACHE SoCal College Bowl representing Concordia University Irvine. This competition allowed me to develop my strategic planning and project management skills. These skills have been crucial in my leadership development. I appreciated Concordia University Irvine for selecting me and the teammates.
How has the MHA program at Concordia University Irvine helped you stay current with the rapidly evolving healthcare landscape?
Concordia University Irvine has kept up to date on the latest healthcare news. During my time at the University, the COVID pandemic was winding down. We discussed it in many classes about the impact this is going to have on the years to come in the healthcare space. Concordia brings in key articles and topics that are current to today’s healthcare world.
In what ways did the MHA program at Concordia University Irvine foster networking opportunities and connections within the healthcare industry?
Concordia allowed me to create meaningful connections with my peers and the university. Many of the project were broken into groups where I would virtually interact with others to accomplish the project goals. Concordia also supported in person networking events with local organizations to grow our network in Southern California.
How did the MHA program at Concordia University Irvine contribute to your growth as a healthcare professional?
I had a basic understanding of the healthcare business world going into this program. Concordia University Irvine gave me the educational tools to hone my skills and help develop me to become a future healthcare leader. I was able to use these skills in my interviews for the fellowship program.
What advice would you give to prospective students considering the MHA program at Concordia University Irvine to advance their healthcare careers?
Concordia is a smaller university that takes pride in its students. Through educational and professional support, Concordia allowed me to reach my full potential. I enjoyed connecting with my peers, the faculty and the community. I am proud to have chosen this university as it has helped me become greater in my achievements.