My career in health care began in the high-stakes environment of the cardiothoracic operating room, where I cared for patients undergoing major procedures like open-heart surgery. Over the course of 20 years, I held various leadership roles such as team leader, manager, and service coordinator, giving me deep insight into the health care system. Yet, despite the rewarding moments, I found myself increasingly disillusioned with the direction the industry was heading.

Looking for a change, a vascular surgeon I had worked with invited me to join his start-up focused on instrument optimization and rationalization. The hospital I was working at had utilized his platform as a pilot hospital, and I was extremely successful in saving the hospital money by optimizing the Cardiothoracic instrument trays used in surgery. It felt like the perfect opportunity to work remotely after moving back to Indiana from North Carolina, where I had lived for 12 years. While the analytical nature of the role intrigued me, I found it increasingly frustrating and isolating.

Joining MSQM

Then came a surprising message on LinkedIn from Jeremy Petranka, who oversaw Fuqua’s Executive MBA and Quantitative Management programs at the time. He introduced me to the MSQM: Health Analytics program. I remember thinking, “Wow! The dean messaged me — he must see something in me.” That moment sparked something. After thoughtful reflection, I applied, believing that if I were accepted, it would be a sign I was on the right path.

When the acceptance email arrived, I was overwhelmed. Orientation was just weeks away, and I barely had time to mentally prepare for the next chapter in my life. But from the moment I arrived, I knew I had made the right decision. Orientation was an incredible experience — connecting with classmates from diverse backgrounds, including physicians, physical therapists, engineers, analysts, and clinical researchers. We spent the weekend learning about the program and engaging in team-building activities that laid the foundation for our collaborative work. Creating our team charter helped us establish shared values and accountability, which proved essential throughout the program.

Leveraging Health Analytics

Now in my fourth semester, I’m learning how to manipulate data to uncover insights that drive strategic decisions. I’m especially looking forward to upcoming workshops that will support my career development. Although the material is outside my nursing background, I see its potential to transform how I contribute to health care.

I’ve recently returned to a managerial role in a cardiothoracic program and am already applying concepts from courses like Navigating Organizations, Value-Based Care, and Decision Models. For example, I’m using decision trees to evaluate new devices and demonstrate their value to our institution. The program is challenging, but the professors are incredibly supportive and committed to our success. Their engaging lectures push us to think critically and apply what we learn in meaningful ways.

I’m genuinely excited to be part of the Duke community and grateful for the opportunity to grow alongside such inspiring classmates and faculty.