Emily Walker ‘18: Keeping a Pulse on Healthcare Management
After earning her Bachelor’s of Science in Biology at Converse, Emily Walker ‘18 decided to continue her education and pursue the business side of healthcare at Converse. As a current graduate student in the online program, Emily is fearlessly pursuing her goals and looking to make an impact in the healthcare industry.
Why made you decide to further your education with the Master of Management (MIM) at Converse?
I know that I’ve always wanted to work in a hospital. However, it wasn’t until after graduation with my Bachelor’s that I switched gears from the medical side to the business side. During my undergrad at Converse, I pursued a Bachelor’s of Science in Biology thinking I would go to medical school. However, Dr. Neval Erturk, the former chair of the Biology, Chemistry and Physics Department and current Professor of Biology at Converse, asked me to work with her during my gap year. During that time, I met a now-classmate and colleague who showed me the ways of Spartanburg Regional Hospital and introduced me to the business side of Healthcare. I chose Converse’s program because I love Converse and all that it stands for; I’m a true Connie!
What is your favorite part of the program?
I love learning how and why things work the way they do. I enjoy understanding the entire picture and figuring out relationships between companies and organizations. So, my favorite part of the program is understanding where the hospital system came from and where it’s headed and the various roles that play a huge part in the functionality of the organization.
Converse has prepared us by exposing us to various scenarios that we may encounter throughout our career.
In what ways is Converse preparing you for a career in this field?
From the very beginning of my Freshman year, Converse has prepared me for life. Converse has provided me with many opportunities, from research with Dr. Neval Erturk and currently being the communications chair for the Graduate Student Association. I will always praise and appreciate Converse for surrounding me with endless support and opportunities for growth. In the field of Healthcare, Converse has prepared us by exposing us to various scenarios that we may encounter throughout our career in business. The coursework is rigorous, requires a lot of thought and it challenges us to answer and respond effectively to what we might encounter in the workplace.
Tell me about some opportunities you’ve had outside the Converse classroom.
I have shadowed many individuals at Spartanburg Regional: Human Resources professionals, my Office Manager, and my Department Manager. All of these individuals have completely different backgrounds and stories for how they got into their current position. I learned their job descriptions and the many roles that they play in the department as well as why they decided to take that path. It’s very interesting to see their journey and how they ended up where they are, but they are all extremely happy in their positions.
What are some of your future career goals?
I was always taught to dream big, so of course I’m going to shoot for the moon and aim for CEO. But my five-year plan is to be either an Office Manager or Department Manager.