Position: Associate
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Where did you go to school and how did you decide your major?
I went to John Carroll University in Cleveland, OH and majored in biochemistry with a minor in Peace, Justice and Human Rights. In high school, I really enjoyed chemistry, so I knew going into college that I wanted to try biochemistry. My love only grew from there. My minor came from my desire to learn more about social issues and advocacy and my experience in the Arrupe Scholars program, a service and social justice program.
At end of Senior year, the pandemic was just starting, and I worried about going to medical school in a virtual environment. I went to the University of Notre Dame for a master’s in STEM entrepreneurship at the ESTEEEM program. It allowed me exposure to innovation in the healthcare industry. I was able to work with a vaccine start up in Chile and helped them develop a commercialization plan to bring a vaccine to market. This piqued my interest in project management and data analytics, which led me to look into other routes outside of medical school.
How did you choose healthcare consulting?
At my master’s program, my peers were searching for careers in consulting which encouraged me to do research into healthcare consulting. During my time with the vaccine start up, I was able to get valuable experience in data analytics and project management. I shopped around by talking to friends and advisors. They told me that I’d go into a niche market if I choose healthcare, but I knew that’s where my interest was.
What was your recruiting process like in college?
I knew right away I didn’t want a big company. I chose a small undergraduate school and a small master’s program, so I focused on small healthcare consulting companies in the Midwest.
How did you know what you wanted in a company?
The most important aspect for me was finding like-minded people that were in this industry for the same reason as me. I wanted to make an impact in an area that is hurting from the pandemic, but in reality, is unfortunately hurting all the time.
I also wanted to find a company that allowed me to accelerate my growth. At a small company you take on more responsibilities (internal & external) and can develop these soft skills.
Is this job what you expected it to be?
I knew healthcare consulting was working with hospitals, but I did not know enough about supply chain. I have learned so much since starting though. We got so involved in the day-to-day operations of the hospital that I had never taken into consideration before how complex the inter-workings of a hospital were. 
Have you developed any new hobbies since staying at home due to COVID?
DIY crafting! I’ve always been a crafty person, but in the pandemic, I did a lot of painting activities. I’d go to the local wine and design store to buy kits to do at home. I’ve also picked up threading through canvas and creating art this way. I’ve begun to use my hands more, like making hot cocoa bombs! Recently, I brought in hot cocoa bombs to share with the team.
Are you an early bird or night owl?
I’d say I lean towards early bird…even though I stay up late and wake up early. It depends on the day – if I’m really into a new Netflix show, I’m a night owl but I tend to be an early bird most days.
If you could only eat one item for every meal for the rest of your life, what would it be?
Easily potatoes. You can eat them in any form. There is so much potential!