Undergraduate Institution: Alma College (Alma, Michigan)
Undergrad Major: Communication, concentration in Mass Media; Minor in French
Type of Work: Marketing and Communication

Why did you choose the MS Health Communication Program at Northwestern University?
I chose the MSHC program at Northwestern because I wanted to bring together my experience in health and wellness advertising and my passion for learning about the ways people communicate. The program seemed like an opportunity to better understand the health care continuum and learn about areas of the health care industry that I may never have been exposed to.

What are your career goals?
Part of what I do every day is determine ways to effectively communicate messages among people who are influencing health care treatment decisions. Using what I learn in the program, I want to bring new perspective to strategies and tools that will help bridge communication gaps for those influencers and the patients they treat. 

What is your favorite part of the program so far?
The people! I love learning about the experiences my peers bring with them to the classroom. We make up a diverse group of backgrounds, ages, and career paths. Everyone has valuable perspective to share.

Any tips on balancing school, work, and life?
Create a social support system that fits your needs. Friends and family can help you prioritize your life outside of the program when you need it. And plan ahead each week. Planning will allow you to take needed breaks from work and school.

Is there any additional advice or information that you would share?
Your success in this program hinges on the effort you put into it. The program moves quickly—take advantage of the resources that are available to you as soon as you can. Your future self will thank you.