After more than a decade as a nurse, Trish N. was ready to take the next step in her healthcare journey. She鈥檇 seen it all 鈥 long nights in acute care hospitals, fast-paced days at ambulatory surgery centers, and even staffing shifts across departments in large health systems. What she wanted next was a way to make a bigger impact, and that鈥檚 where 国产主播鈥檚 Master of Health Administration (MHA) program came in.
鈥淚鈥檝e been a nurse since 2012, the same year I had my baby,鈥 Trish shared. 鈥淚 got my vocational nursing license and started working at Kindred Hospital. That gave me a strong foundation 鈥 I saw how critical patients can get, and how important our role is in helping them recover, or sadly, sometimes not.鈥
Building on a Strong Foundation in Clinical Care
With over 10 years of hands-on experience, Trish had developed a passion not only for patient care but for understanding the systems that support healthcare delivery.
鈥淚 started in long-term acute care, then moved into ambulatory surgery, which was fast paced. I liked seeing patients recover quickly after surgery and go home to their families. That was very rewarding,鈥 she said. 鈥淏ut I also started noticing how each facility operated differently鈥攕ome were more efficient, some had more complaints, delays, or issues. That got me interested in the management 蝉颈诲别.鈥&苍产蝉辫;
That curiosity sparked something deeper 鈥 a desire to lead, influence, and improve the healthcare system from the inside.
Taking the Leap into an MHA Program
During the pandemic, Trish received a message about WCU鈥檚 online MHA program. At first, she thought it might be spam. But after researching, she took a leap of faith.
鈥淚 wasn鈥檛 sure if it was real, but I thought 鈥 why not give it a try? I didn鈥檛 even know a program like this was out there for someone like me. But I applied, and I got accepted.鈥
Despite having earned a bachelor’s degree in Vietnam, Trish was nervous about returning to school 鈥 especially in a new country and in a new language.
鈥淚 was excited but scared,鈥 she said. 鈥淚t had been over 10 years since I鈥檇 been in school, and everything had to be in APA format, professional writing, with proper grammar and layout. But I learned. I asked for help when I needed it, and I stayed up until 2 a.m. sometimes to get my work done.鈥
A Program Designed for Working Professionals
One feature of the online MHA program at 国产主播 is its flexibility 鈥 designed for working healthcare professionals to balance jobs, families, and education.聽
鈥淚f I can do it, anyone can,鈥 Trish said. 鈥淭he school has a great system. The professors, even the dean, were supportive. If I was a little late for an assignment, I鈥檇 get a gentle reminder. They motivate you and guide you.鈥
Over the course of the two-year program, Trish explored ethics, leadership, healthcare finance, and more.
鈥淵ou start with topics like ethics, which are so important in healthcare. Then you move into business topics, IT, and management. By the end, you鈥檙e thinking about the whole healthcare system 鈥 not just your department.鈥
From Student to Educator and Leader
After graduating in 2024, Trish found a role that was directly tied to her MHA degree.聽
鈥淣ow I鈥檓 working as a clinical instructor for an LVN program,鈥 she said proudly. 鈥淚 get to pass on what I鈥檝e learned and continue growing. I鈥檓 still learning too, building confidence and communication skills.鈥
Looking ahead, Trish isn鈥檛 stopping anytime soon.
鈥淚 want to do more. I want to see change in the medical field. We need more leadership in healthcare 鈥 people with a good heart, with passion. People who can guide others and help teams work together toward something bigger.鈥澛
Trish believes the MHA program at WCU helped her put fuel in the tank for that next phase of her journey.
鈥淚t鈥檚 like you fill up your gas tank with knowledge and now the engine is ready to go. You just have to turn the key.鈥
Advice for Future MHA Students
For anyone considering enrolling in WCU鈥檚 Master of Health Administration program, Trish鈥檚 message is clear:
鈥淒on鈥檛 hesitate. If you have the desire to lead and make a difference in healthcare, this program gives you the tools. You can work while going to school, and time goes by fast. Before you know it, you鈥檙e done 鈥 and you鈥檙e ready.鈥
Interested in Becoming a Leader in Healthcare?
国产主播鈥檚 online MHA program is designed for working professionals who want to make a greater impact in the healthcare field. Learn from experienced faculty, gain practical leadership skills, and graduate prepared to take on management roles across the healthcare industry.
WCU provides career guidance and assistance but cannot guarantee employment. The views and opinions expressed are those of the individuals and do not necessarily reflect the beliefs or position of the school or of any instructor or student.
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