Guest Post: Nickolas Falk, Acquisitions & Administration Librarian

Posted on May 9, 2016 by USG

With the spread of Zika virus reaching a highpoint on February 1, 2016 when it was declared a Public Health Emergency of International Concern by the World Health Organization (WHO) for its association with microcephaly and other neurological disorders, the Priddy Library here at the Universities of Shady Grove (USG) decided we needed to do something. As librarians, we are in a position that allows us to provide access to timely and accurate information. So in addition to a small exhibit created to cover the current information on the Zika virus, we reached out to the University of Maryland (UMD), College Park Public Health Sciences program and to the Office of the Executive Director to plan a panel discussion hosted by the Priddy Library. The panel discussion featured experts who shared their knowledge on the Zika virus and detailed the efforts taken by Montgomery County to fight the spread of the virus to our area.

The panel began with two UMD Public Health Science professors, Dr. Jessica O’Hara and Dr. Gretchen De Silva, who described the Zika virus’s virology and epidemiology, respectfully. Some of the important points Dr. O’Hara provided were on Guillain-Barré syndrome and Microcephaly. Interestingly, although Guillain-Barré syndrome affects adult’s nervous system, some individuals can fully recover. Dr. O’Hara also explained that microcephaly can be identified in utero near the end of the 2nd trimester and no reports have been made of transmission from mothers to infants through breastfeeding. After Dr. De Silva traced the history and exposure of the virus, she explained noteworthy numbers on the confirmed cases in the United States and defining elements of the infections; local and imported.

The panel also included Debra Aplan from the Montgomery County Office of Disease Control & Immunization and Dr. Earl Stoddard from the Montgomery County Office of Emergency Management & Homeland Security. Aplan and Dr. Stoddard each spoke on the actions being taken by the county to protect people from being infected with the virus, explaining how the county is raising awareness and supplying protection kits for county residents as summer approaches and the risk of being bitten by mosquito’s increases. Montgomery County has also created a website on Zika virus prevention and awareness.

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Graduate Spotlight: Dollye McClain ’16

Posted on April 25, 2016 by USG

Dollye_webthumbnail_circleMeet Dollye! In May 2016, Dollye will be graduating from Bowie State University with an Ed.D. in Education. Dollye has been employed with Montgomery County Public Schools (MCPS) for 27 years and is currently the Assistant Principal at Paint Branch High School. Learn about her journey and her experiences at USG.

Starting from when you began your program at USG, what steps did you take to get to where you are today in your career?

I have been employed with Montgomery County Public Schools (MCPS) for 27 years. A few years ago a friend and I were talking about our own educational paths. We got the crazy idea to go enter a doctoral program. We made a bet with each other to see who would actually go through with and stick with it, and from there, we each enrolled in different schools at the same time. In January 2011, I enrolled at Bowie State University in their Ed.D. in Education program. It has been an arduous journey, but now I will finally be graduating in May. My career with MCPS, especially now as the Assistant Principal of Paint Branch High School, has been wonderful. It will be really nice have “Dr. McClain” on my door.

What do you do at your current job?

As an Assistant Principal of Paint Branch High School each day varies. Most days start with morning duty in the halls and once all of the students are in class, I meet with parents of students who may be having issues in school. After talking with our security team and our School Resource Officer I typically meet with the student and the parent together. Then I have lunch duty. I usually get to sit down and eat my lunch around 1:00pm. After lunch I usually have several Special Education (SPED) meetings. Throughout the day I meet with department chairpersons concerning teachers. And, on a few occasions I make a home visit with our Pupil Personnel Worker (PPW).

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I work under the direction of the Principal, which consists of assisting with administration and supervision of the total school program and providing educational leadership for students and staff members in an effort to be consistent with the educational goals of the community. One of my jobs includes establishing a climate conducive to learning, planning, and coordinating programs, affecting change, and decision making along with discipline. I prepare a variety of written reports and correspondence — anything from memos about testing, to college recommendations for students. I also assume responsibility for operation of the school in the absence of the Principal.

How did your time at USG prepare you for your career?

As a doctoral student I had to complete an externship. I decided to work with Dr. Genevieve Floyd in the Department of Career and Postsecondary Partnerships. I realized that Dr. Floyd has a small staff but is responsible for many different programs including partnerships with businesses, higher education institutions and Maryland Career and Technology Education career clusters. These clusters include:

  • Arts, Humanities, Media and Communication
  • Business Management and Finance
  • Human and Consumer Services, Hospitality and Tourism
  • Education, Training, and Child Studies
  • College Awareness, Readiness and Preparation: Accuplacer, GED Prep; JROTC, etc.

It was really interesting completing my externship with Dr. Floyd and one where I was able to gain a lot of experience in several diverse areas of education. It also got me thinking about what I would like to pursue in the next chapter of my career.

What was your most memorable experience at USG?

My favorite memory about USG was the library. I spent a lot of time doing research there and found the staff very accommodating and helpful. The late hours the library was open was especially useful around final exam time. The library also has a lot of wonderful technology — the One-Button Studio is great for recording presentations. There is also the MediaScape where students can collaborate on a document or project. Everyone can connect simultaneously and switch between users to share notes, media and websites. I also used the Bookeye, which is a super scanner that can scan any item and be saved on a flash drive. I hope more students realize and use all the wonderful resources the library offers.

In 140 characters or less, what message would you give to future graduates?

USG is a “hidden jewel.” USG offers amazing resources that allow students to stay in the area and THRIVE academically and professionally.

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Graduate Spotlight: Rivka Alvial ’13

Posted on April 18, 2016 by USG

Rivka_webthumbnail_circleMeet Rivka! A 2013 graduate from the University of Maryland Eastern Shore’s Hospitality and Tourism Management Program. Rivka is the Market Supervisor at Centrolina in downtown D.C. Learn about her experiences at USG and see what she is up to now.

Starting from when you began your program at USG, what steps did you take to get to where you are today in your career?

My decision to enroll in the Hotel and Restaurant program (now called Hospitality and Tourism Management) at the University of Maryland Eastern Shore (UMES) at USG was a great decision. The small classes and hands-on experiences really helped me thrive and reach my full potential. It was important for me to get “my ducks in a row.” I knew I needed to figure out what my end goal was and how I was going to get there. I spent a lot of time networking and trying to meet the right people to get me to where I wanted to go.

Along the way those people became my mentors, and they had a profound effect on my life and career. I spent a lot of time asking questions, listening to their answers and observing them. They really helped me when I started evaluating my life decisions. I still keep in contact with my all of my mentors, including my program directors and instructors. They have opened so many doors and opportunities for me. I truly wouldn’t be where I am today if it weren’t for the all the people I met while at USG. They will forever be my mentors and incredible women that I so admire. I want to publicly thank them for their continued support and encouragement, but more than anything, I want to thank them for taking a risk on me and helping me pave my career.

What do you do at your current job?

As the Market Supervisor at Centrolina in downtown DC, I do a little bit of everything. I’m in charge of making sure things run smoothly. I’m in charge of managing my staff’s productivity, making sure the store front is always presentable and packed to the brim with produce and products. I work with our butcher and sous-chef to make sure we’re packing enough prepared foods, and when need be, I jump behind the counter and bust out some delicious cappuccinos. Centrolina is an up and coming restaurant, so there are a lot of things that need to get done for it to run successfully and efficiently. Currently I’m in the process of creating a new training manual for our current staff and future employees.

How did your time at USG prepare you for your career?Rivka

UMES’s Hotel and Restaurant Management program (now called Hospitality and Tourism Management) really set me up for tremendous success. The majority of our classes and projects were hands-on in a work-ready environment. Every day in my job I find myself doing things I’ve already had practice with, such as writing out procedures, creating prep lists, understanding how certain systems work, managing and scheduling staff, working as a part of a culinary team, and most importantly ORGANIZATION. I can’t stress that enough. Organization is imperative to any career, but especially so in a career in the hospitality industry.

What was your most memorable experience at USG?

My most memorable experience at USG was being part of the Campus Kitchens Project (CKP). CKP is a national organization that empowers student volunteers to fight hunger in their community. The USG Campus Kitchen chapter consists of UMES students at the USG campus. I remember sitting in my first professional development class and the senior management team put together a presentation about the Campus Kitchen Project. Each month students prepared more than 200 nutritious meals for families in need and also led workshops to teach basic cooking skills, and even advocated for hunger awareness in Montgomery County.

After learning about CKP I told myself, “I. Will. Be. President.” When class ended I ran into the kitchen and pleaded to Chef Susan Callahan to be a part of it. I think my exact words were, “I don’t think you really understand my potential and what I can do for Campus Kitchens.” Well, low and behold, my senior year, I became President of CKP. During my term I wanted to put together a gala of some sort to raise more money than any other class previously had. My team and I petitioned for an event, and although it did not happen during my term we had laid the foundation of what would become the Dining with the Chefs event, which took place the following year. The first year of the event, in 2014, we raised $32,000 for the USG Campus Kitchens Chapter. That was probably my proudest moment. We decided to make this a bi-annual event and this year will be the second Dining with the Chefs event on April 18th. Centrolina will be donating all of the desserts. I can’t wait to go back and experience this event all over again.

In 140 characters or less, what message would you give to future graduates?

Dream big. Network. Find mentors. Be part of something that’s not only going to change your life, but also benefit someone else’s.

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Graduate Spotlight: Roy Gordon ’09

Posted on April 11, 2016 by USG

Roy_webthumbnail_circleMeet Roy! A 2009 graduate from the University of Maryland University College (UMUC) Business Administration program. Roy is an IT Program Manager at the United States Postal Service headquarters in Washington, D.C. Learn about his experiences at USG and see what he is up to now.

Starting from when you began your program at USG, what steps did you take to get to where you are today in your career?

My first step was to find the right degree program that would provide a balance with my professional and family life. As a father of two children and having a full-time work schedule, I found that UMUC provided the best opportunity to pursue my degree as a part-time student. I liked the fact that I could choose to go to school online, or attend classes on the conveniently located USG campus. My son and daughter (in high school at the time) often shared my study schedule. We spent time together on evenings and weekends at the kitchen table all doing our homework.

My next step was to focus on academic excellence. I took advantage of the USG campus resources, like the library, and the group study spaces — all of which really helped me excel in my studies. I’m happy my hard work paid off and I was able to graduate with a degree in Business and a minor in Marketing – Magna Cum Laude.

My last step was to leverage my professional experience with my academics. Whenever possible, I tried to use “real-life” business challenges in my research and studies. Now I can apply these situations in my current position as an IT Program Manager for the United States Post Service (USPS).

What do you do at your current job?

I am an IT Program Manager for the United States Postal Service. I manage Marketing department portfolio systems and overall portfolio financial management. This activity is done to maintain the operational readiness (system available and operating properly) for approximately 50 IT legacy systems including some you may recognize like USPS.com.

My responsibilities also include project management oversight of the design, development and release of major (national in scope) software updates across many department portfolio systems like Retail and Engineering. This is done to make sure that our Postal customer’s cost and experience for purchasing products and services is reliable, correct, and consistent across all channels like Retail, Self- Service, and Online.

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A typical day starts with a planned schedule but rarely ends that way. As issues arise my schedule is adjusted depending on the nature of the issue. Issues can range from critical, if a revenue generating system in not operating correctly, or an issue may be time-sensitive, if a response to senior management is needed on a major topic.

How did your time at USG prepare you for your career?

My time at USG prepared me in multiple ways for my career. Through class projects I learned how to collaborate effectively with other team members. I was able to hone my writing skills with the dozens of papers I had to write. My marketing courses helped me better understand my customer’s (USPS Marketing) goals and objectives. And lastly, my interaction with my fellow students provided me with invaluable insight on consumer expectations of online services.

What was your most memorable experience at USG?

My most memorable experience at USG was my first day on campus. As I walked into the building where my class was held, I was in disbelief on how modern, comfortable and clean the classrooms were. I had gone from attending evening classes at College Park in the basement of the Mathematics building to a contemporary classroom setting equipped with the latest technology. If you have ever spent evenings in the basement of the Mathematics building at College Park you would understand my amazement! I continued to be in awe of all the amazing things USG had to offer, the library, the study rooms and the computer labs.

In 140 characters or less, what message would you give to future graduates?

Your time at USG is unique. Enjoy the journey & never stop learning. Lifelong learning is an integral part of building a successful career.

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Graduate Spotlight: Ernest Agkuam ’10

Posted on April 4, 2016 by USG

Ernest_webthumbnail_circleMeet Ernest! A 2010 graduate from the Salisbury University Respiratory Therapy program. Ernest is a Respiratory Therapist at Holy Cross Hospital and Shady Grove Adventist Hospital. Learn about his experiences at USG and see what he is up to now.

Starting from when you began your program at USG, what steps did you take to get to where you are today in your career?

Deciding to enroll in the Respiratory Therapy program at Salisbury University at USG was one of the most important educational decisions that I made in my life. As a resident of Montgomery County and as a father with family obligations, the conveniently located campus allowed me to excel in my education and achieve my career goals. By building a strong academic foundation, I was able to succeed in pursing my dream of becoming a respiratory therapist.

What do you do at your current job?

I am a Respiratory Care Practitioner at Holy Cross Hospital and Shady Grove Adventist Hospital. As a respiratory therapist I am responsible for assessing, planning, implementing and evaluating patient care to a specified group of patients, mainly, patients needing airway protection. I collaborate with physicians, medical professional, and other staff to ensure quality care is given. And, I am part of the critical care team who is responsible for stabilizing patients in emergencies. As a respiratory therapist, I also play an important role in educating and enlightening patients in regards to controlling certain chronic pulmonary diseases such as Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD) and Asthma.

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A day in the life as a respiratory therapist starts with arriving at the hospital on time and getting reports from the previous shift. My duties really depend on the area I am assigned to. For example, a day in the Intensive Care Unit (ICU) starts with checking and assessing the patients on continuous life support ventilators. A critical portion of my day in the ICU consists of rounding with the Intensivist to discuss the prognosis and treatment for the patients. After the rounds, ventilated patients who meet our weaning criteria are placed on spontaneous breathing trials (called a CPAP trial) to determine their pulmonary strength and evaluated on whether or not they can be removed from the life support ventilators. Respiratory therapists have a very important role in the healthcare setting — we are responsible for maintaining a person’s airway when an emergency occurs. Not being able to breathe is a very frightening experience, and can even lead to death in some cases. It is the greatest feeling when you are able to help someone breathe on their own and save lives.

How did your time at USG prepare you for your career?

USG allowed me to obtain the leadership and critical thinking skills that I now use on a daily basis. I was really impressed that my classes could be conducted via Interactive TV. It allowed my professors to teach classes from the main campus in Salisbury, and we could communicate with them as if they were standing right in front of us. I was also fortunate to receive several scholarships at USG. The financial assistance allowed me to focus on my studies and still have time for my family.

What was your most memorable experience at USG?

I treasure my memories of USG. I loved the beautiful landscape around campus. The faculty and staff were very supportive and always available to assist me. The campus offers so many amenities including a recreational center with showers, a photo-copy center, a cafeteria, several computer classrooms, an amazing library with quiet study rooms, and an abundance of parking spaces.

In 140 characters or less, what message would you give to future graduates?

Cherish your time at USG. It is quite a privilege to have nine high-quality Maryland universities on one campus – enjoy it and best of luck!

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Graduate Spotlight: Brian Doyle ’09

Posted on March 28, 2016 by USG

Brian_webthumbnail_circleMeet Brian! A 2009 graduate from the University of Baltimore Simulation and Digital Entertainment program. Brian is the Education Team Manager at Planet3. Learn about his experiences at USG and see what he is up to now.

Starting from when you began your program at USG, what steps did you take get to where you are today in your career?

During my senior year in the Simulation and Digital Entertainment program at the University of Baltimore (UB) at USG, I was given the opportunity to lead an internship class in a project to create an educational video game. The result was an environmental science learning game called My Own Biome. This project was so well received that I was able to spin it into a company that I named Let Me Think! The video game was incorporated into the science curriculum in Baltimore County Public Schools — it really helped jump-start my career. Even though I found some level of success, the company was not viable long-term.

During this time I had also been serving as an instructor in the Simulation and Digital Entertainment program at UB. Teaching presented me with an excellent opportunity to give back to the education community and help others learn how to create games. I still teach today!

After closing my company, I started working as an Instructional Designer at an emergency travel assistance company. I saw this role as a good way to continue my creative work in a more stable, mainstream, corporate environment. After a year, I was promoted to the organizational effectiveness management position where I supervised the production and implementation of the company’s training, documentation, and change management efforts.

From there, I found myself in a good position to start considering other opportunities. I had a stable, well-paying position in a pleasant work environment — one that gave me the freedom to spend nearly a year searching for the right opportunity to take me in the new direction I was looking for with my career.

After a long search, I found a position with an exciting start-up, Planet3, which has allowed me to return to creating educational video games.

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What do you do at your current job?

I started with Planet3 in January. Planet3 is an exploration-based learning company that is developing a digital learning platform designed to inspire teachers and students with immersive experiences in the subjects of Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts and Math (STEAM), with a focus on our changing planet. As the Education Team Manager, my role is to guide and direct the team that produces the standards-based learning goals, curriculum material, and educational assets for our product. I’m also able to leverage my background to help bridge and connect instructional needs with game design requirements.

Right now, my biggest focus is on learning everything I can about the company and the projects we are working on. With a start-up, you don’t have the same kind of ramp-up time that you would in a normal position with an already established company. You just have to hit the ground running!

How did your time at USG prepare you for your career?

While at USG, I learned the value of working hard and going above and beyond the requirements to get an ‘A’ grade. This, more than anything else, has opened door after door for me in the real world.

I received a huge amount of help from my mentor, Dr. Kate Austin. She gave me a great opportunity to lead an important project, helped me turn it into a company, and has provided invaluable guidance and support the entire time I’ve known her.

I’m also grateful for receiving the AFCEA scholarship. In addition to helping me financially through a difficult semester, it introduced me to Bill Schlossenberg. Bill has been a valuable mentor and advisor over the last several years.

As a result of my experiences at USG, I have people I can rely on to give me advice on career decisions, personal goals, and life in general.

What was your most memorable experience at USG?

My most memorable experience at USG was the class that led to the creation of my company. My mentor, Dr. Kate Austin, allowed me to take an extra internship class as an elective. In this class, we pitched educational game ideas to senior leadership at Baltimore County Public Schools (BCPS). My proposal was selected, and I was able to lead the entire class in a semester-long project to build a prototype for my video game, My Own Biome. This prototype was well received, and BCPS chose to provide funding to develop a full version of the game. It was at that moment I had one of my many dreams come true.

In 140 characters or less, what message would you give to the future graduates?

Be ready when opportunities present themselves; those who are prepared are fully able to take advantage when the right one comes along.

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Graduate Spotlight: April Asare UMBC ’08 & UMB ’10

Posted on March 21, 2016 by USG

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Meet April! April graduated from UMBC in 2008 and from the University of Maryland, Baltimore School of Social Work in 2010. April currently works at Medical Management and Rehabilitation, Inc. (MMARS) as a Development Disability Administration (DDA) Waiver and Self-directed Specialist. Learn about her experiences at USG and see what she is up to now.

Starting from when you began your program at USG, what steps did you take to get to where you are today in your career?

While at UMBC at USG, I had the opportunity to work closely with my advisors, and in doing so, I was able to successfully complete my bachelor’s degree in Social Work. During my last year at USG, I explored post-graduate options. I decided that I wanted to pursue a Master’s degree in Social Work specializing in families and children, with a dual MACRO/Clinical concentration. I enrolled in the University of Maryland, Baltimore School of Social Work at USG, where I was recommended for the advanced standing program. I completed my Master’s degree in a little over a year and that gave me the most amazing sense of accomplishment. My life experiences, and my internships during both undergraduate and graduate school, really influenced me to choose a career where I could help people, specifically, where I could provide counseling for families. I began counseling with a colleague, at Journey’s Crossing Counseling, through my church. The counseling center closed a few years later, but I still volunteer with my church to provide support, referrals, resources and guidance to those in our community who need it. Currently, I work at Medical Management and Rehabilitation, Inc. (MMARS), where I help individuals who have developmental disabilities. I thoroughly enjoy working with people and helping them work through their challenges so that they can reach their ultimate achievements.

What do you do at your current job?

I currently work at Medical Management and Rehabilitation, Inc. (MMARS) as a Development Disability Administration (DDA) Waiver and Self-directed Specialist. I monitor individuals who have developmental disabilities to make sure they are connected to the resources they require to help them to live, work and enjoy their community as successfully and independently as possible. I am a liaison and advocate for my clients between DDA, their provider, families and any other organization/agency they might be involved with. My day is typically spent going out in the community to visit my clients. I conduct assessments of their needs, and check on them to see how they are doing, especially if I have not heard from them in a while. I help them create annual individual plans and develop goals for them to work towards achieving throughout the year. I assist them with the process of connecting to providers and acquiring funding for the providers. I also research and make referrals to community resources that would be useful to my clients. I see myself as my clients’ cheerleader and encourage their independence in the community.

How did your time at USG prepare you for your career?

USG prepared me for my career in many ways. I would not be where I am today if it weren’t for the team of caring and conscientious faculty and staff who helped me get through really challenging times while I was in school. I had terrible experiences with extreme financial hardship, chronic illnesses, and tragic family problems at various points throughout my time at USG. But, every time, there was always a kind ear, useful advice and clear guidance from these individuals at USG that helped me navigate, even when I could not see my own way through.

My classes prepared me very well, academically, for my career. Courses were rigorous; some were just downright HARD!! But, whatever challenges I experienced with my courses, there was always a student, professor or advisor with which I could glean, learn and bounce ideas. Even today in my career I am constantly recalling things that I learned in class. Those moments flood me with pride to realize what a great education I received at USG.

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Advisors at USG are so good at matching students with awesome internships. I had the great opportunity to intern at a school for children with emotional disturbances. It was right up my alley! I learned so much about therapeutic work within the academic realm. I experienced several dynamic aspects while working with the students and their families. My time there truly enriched my desire to work with families and children.

The greatest experiences at USG involved interacting with the student body and the community outside of the classroom. USG has a huge variety of student clubs, organizations and activities. My involvement in these extracurricular opportunities provided a rich opportunity to connect with people outside of my “usual” circles, and broadened my perspective. I enjoyed being a part of the Student Social Work Associations at USG, the Social Work Honor Society Phi Alpha, Student Council, Christian Fellowship Club and various community outreach organizations. I’ve delivered numerous speeches at various USG events, many of which were attended by Montgomery County dignitaries and donors. I had opportunities to take part in various USG activities such as the picnics, casino nights, dances, movies, parties, and various other celebrations. USG has such a vast diversity and is rich with culture. I love that USG opens opportunities to express our diversity through student activities, clubs and organizations.

What was your most memorable experience at USG?

Although I have delivered numerous speeches at various USG events, I think the most memorable one was my first speech, where I spoke before the Board of Regents. I’ve told this story many times. When I first attempted to apply to UMBC at USG I was literally penniless. I wanted so much to continue my education after graduating from Montgomery College, but I could not even afford the application fee. But I had made up my mind that I would not quit. I figured, “Hey! I am an ‘A’ student…that’s got to be good for something right?” I ran a computer search on UMBC’s website for someone, ANYONE, I could possibly connect with. I picked the first name I saw, and composed a lovely, informative, and persuasive email explaining my situation. And…Eureka!! A breakthrough! I was granted an application fee waiver! I immediately applied and was subsequently accepted into the best academic program of my life! Well, it turns out, the person who helped me just happened to be the President of the University, Dr. Freeman Hrabrowski! I had learned that after I had started school, and soon afterward, I had the opportunity to meet Dr. Hrabrowski in person. It was an amazing experience and feeling. To this day, I count Dr. Hrabrowski as not only one of my mentors, but also as a friend.

In 140 characters or less, what message would you give to future graduates?

Always believe that dreams do come true…it just takes a plan and incremental steps to achieve them!

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Graduate Spotlight: Itamar Simhon ’08

Posted on March 11, 2016 by USG

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Meet Itamar! A 2008 graduate from the University of Maryland, Baltimore, School of Nursing and Clinical Nurse Manager of Healogics, Inc. at Washington Adventist Hospital. Learn about his experiences at USG and see what he is up to now.

Starting from when you began your program at USG, what steps did you take to get to where you are today in your career?

Through the University of Maryland, Baltimore School of Nursing at USG, students are able to earn a Patient Care Technician certificate during their third semester. Since I wanted to start having a clinical experience and build professional relationships, it became a goal of mine to obtain the certificate, and once I did, I started working at Suburban Hospital in the intensive care unit (ICU). Working in the ICU allowed me to correlate what I was learning in the classroom and apply it directly to my job. The experience in the ICU was one I’ll never forget — not only I was I able to form a relationship with my employer, but I also benefited from getting the best hands-on experience I could ask for. That then turned into a job offer as a Registered Nurse (RN) when I graduated. During my time at Suburban Hospital I made a conscious effort to seek mentors with the more accomplished nurses, knowing that they would continue to move up in their career. I was also very active on LinkedIn and it was through LinkedIn that I got offered my current job at Healogics.

What do you do at your current job?_DSC0004

As the Clinical Nurse Manager at Healogics, my day starts at 8:00am. The nurses and I gather for a morning huddle to talk about the day’s schedule and any important information about patients. I still see patients and manage the most difficult cases.  I work side by side with the six doctors that work at our clinic and we consult with each other regarding the next steps in our patients’ care. I also often meet with pharmaceutical representatives and make decisions as to which products we wish to use in the clinic. I meet with the hospital administration and discuss the progress of the clinic, revenue, and hiring decisions. We also host medical students; each one has a two week rotation in the wound care center. It’s a great set-up for them — I get to train the students, answer their questions and provide guidance as they assist us with patient care. No two days are exactly the same and that’s one thing I love most about my job. I’m constantly on my feet, making decisions, and working to improve the clinic and lives of our patients.

How did your time at USG prepare you for your career?

My experience at USG led me to have a successful career that I wouldn’t have had otherwise. Academically, I had amazing professors who were not only knowledgeable, but kind and patient, and truly wanted to see their students succeed. It was through their support and advice that I was able to make it through even the most difficult courses. The clinical rotations I went through as part of the nursing program were essential to my learning and application of the “textbook” knowledge I had gained. I was able to put everything I learned into action and my hands-on experience taught me how to problem solve and think quickly on my feet. These skills were essential in my first job as a nurse in the ICU, and they are still essential in my current position as a Clinical Nurse Manager at Healogics. While at USG I was fortunate to receive a very generous academic scholarship called the “Casey Scholarship” from Suburban Hospital that paid for my last year of school. This made my life so much easier as it allowed me to focus on my academics and not worry about how pay for school or working extra hours. I am so thankful for the scholarship that I received, but most importantly for my time at USG.

What was your most memorable experience at USG?

My most memorable experience was while I was President of the USG Student Council. Every year the class decides on a gift to leave as a legacy. My class, the class of 2008, decided we wanted to plant and dedicate a tree to USG. With the help of Julia Radar we held a big event, and presented a plaque that reads, “A green gift from a green generation. Class of 2008.” So now when you walk between building I and III you can see the beautiful eight year-old tree we planted.

In 140 characters or less, what message would you give to future graduates?

Travel. Be adventurous. Make memories. Learn from life. The wisdom & experience you gain will help you in your career.

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