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Donna Cunningham, MPH
Communications Program Manager
Sales Support Services
Blue Cross and Blue Shield of North Carolina
For many years I did not consider going back to school because I thought it was out of reach. How could I ever get suitable GRE scores to get into the #2-ranked graduate school in the country for Public Health? I hadn't had a math class since 1986! And how could I work full time and go to school? I was afraid I wouldn't have a life anymore. But this was a fantastic opportunity. I decided to give it a try.
The GRE PREP course was a challenge for me, but I worked hard and got an acceptable score. I had to take the test twice, but I made it! I couldn't have done it without attending the prep class. Graduate school was a challenge, too. I had to cut back on some activities so I could study, but it was worth it. I grew a lot personally and professionally while I was in graduate school, and somehow I got married, started a new job and moved while working full time and going to school. It may sound crazy, but I was often more productive during those years!
I'm thankful for the encouragement we received during the GRE PREP course. The instructor really cared for his students and was so proud to see us graduate. He came to our 2005 graduation and took our picture!
Wallisa Marsh, RN, MHA, CCM
Program Innovation Manager
Healthcare Program Design and Development
Blue Cross Blue Shield of North Carolina
2005 MHA Graduate, Executive Master's Program
University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill
"MY KEYS TO SUCCESS"
A key factor that helped me prepare for success was setting a goal. Since obtaining my undergraduate degree in nursing, a long-term goal was to obtain my graduate degree. I wanted to learn more about healthcare administration in order to apply my clinical skills to the business side of healthcare. Visualizing a goal and the steps to obtain those goals helped me construct a plan for success.
Networking with individuals who displayed determination and professionalism was another success factor. I met "determined professionals" during the GRE PREP course while we prepared to "beat" the entrance exam. The prep study and networking allowed me to achieve my first goal of being accepted by the Executive Master's Program, UNC-Chapel Hill.
Confidence and leadership are also important factors for success, both of which increased as I gained knowledge and new skills. The pursuit of higher education increased my awareness and understanding of the skills required for advancement.
A final but VERY important factor for success was the support of my family. Completing graduate school while working and raising a family was truly an eye opening experience. Their support was an integral part of my success. Thus, setting goals, networking, gaining knowledge, and developing skills from life's challenges have all contributed to my success.
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