Meet Our MHA Students and Alumni

“I’ve always been interested in how the healthcare system works and how policy impacts patient care. George Mason’s MHA program gave me the industry knowledge and data analysis skills I needed to succeed in my role as a project manager at Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Alabama. I used what I learned immediately, and I know it will continue to guide my career. The program also opened my eyes to new interests and opportunities I hadn’t considered before.”

At the White House’s Council on Environmental Quality, Monica contributed to data recommendations for the Climate and Economic Justice Screening Tool (CEJST), a tool used by federal agencies to identify disadvantaged communities prioritized by the Justice40 Initiative.

“This work helped me understand the importance of data and community engagement in shaping effective policy. I saw how community voices and lived experiences guide public policy decisions. It changed how I view health equity and program design—and gave me a more holistic view of healthcare beyond the clinical setting.”

“I’m excited to rotate through departments like operations, finance, HR, and digital health. These rotations give me a 360-degree view of how a major healthcare system operates. Every department contributes to patient care in a different way, and I’m learning how to lead by understanding each of those perspectives. It’s an incredible opportunity to grow as a leader and find where I can make the greatest impact.”

• Gain work experience before or during the program—whether through internships, fellowships, or full-time roles.
• Be authentic in your applications and interviews. Know yourself and be confident in your goals.
• When applying for competitive opportunities, understand what you want to get out of them—this helps you tailor your personal statements and interview responses.

“My long-term goals include leadership roles in hospital operations, health equity, or healthcare innovation. Titles like VP of Operations or Director of Health Equity appeal to me, but I also want to stay open to where healthcare evolves. There may be roles in the future that don’t even exist yet. Right now, I’m focused on gaining broad experience, staying curious, and building strong relationships with mentors and colleagues.”