Ph.D. in Health Policy and Management.

Why did you choose graduate school at IUPUI?

I was accepted at several excellent universities and I visited them all. It was important to me that there was a good fit, much like choosing a new job. We were planning to relocate anyway, so I took the time to make sure I would not only receive an excellent education, but the environment was also a good fit. I visited IUPUI twice, and each time I met with faculty, staff, and fellow students, I found an open, welcoming environment, with people that were eager to help me be successful. Today I work with renowned faculty who are supportive and available to me, and I enjoy a supportive relationship with my fellow students.

What has been your favorite academic accomplishment since you’ve been here?

I’ve really enjoyed the diversity in my academic program. In addition to many courses in research methods, health policy and management, I’ve been able to take additional courses in areas of my specific interests. The experience has really opened my eyes to different aspects of healthcare and different perspectives.

What do you enjoy most about life in Indianapolis?

Indianapolis feels like a “small big city” to me. We can find everything we need or want in the Indianapolis area, and yet we are minutes away from great hiking and camping, when we want to get out of the city. It’s also very easy to get around, which I can’t say about every city we’ve lived in. We love living in the Midwest.

Please provide some details about your work/research as a graduate student and/or any activities you are involved in.

I’ve had many opportunities to work with faculty on a wide variety of research projects, and I’ve learned a great deal from each experience. I am currently working with Joshua R. Vest PhD MPH, to apply for a grant and establish a multi-university research center that is a partnership between academia and industry. I have also been involved with research related to pain clinic closures, concussion prevention and treatment, file matching within health information exchanges, and I’m currently doing some work with a faculty member who is also the editor-in-chief of a national journal and on the board of a national society. I have had the opportunity to teach multiple undergraduate courses and TA for several professors. I also currently serve as the vice president of the local Academy Health student chapter.