Job Shadow Day opens doors for HSA Students

Job Shadow Day comes along every February for students enrolled in UDM's Master's in Health Services Administration program (MHSA), and sometimes for those who commit to the one-day program, opportunities come knocking.

Mary O'Shaughnessey, assistant professor and chair of the UDM Health Services Administration program, says that HSA students participating in Job Shadow Day have impressed the healthcare executives with their knowledge and skills. As a result of this observation, the executives have asked some of the students to apply for fellowships and positions at the healthcare facility as well as offered them internships.

 
MHSA student Tiffany Roland with Luanne Ewald of Children's Hospital of Michigan.

This year, MHSA student Tiffany Roland experienced a memorable Job Shadow day at Children's Hospital of Michigan (CHM) where she followed Luanne Ewald, vice president of Business Development and Strategic Planning. Roland attended several meetings including one town hall gathering that left her energized.

"In this meeting everyone uplifted one another. They encouraged employees to provide a level of customer service that is appreciated by the patients and their families," says Roland. "It was the best town hall meeting I have ever attended."

Job Shadow Day involves healthcare executives who agree to share their day's activities with students, who in turn get a glimpse at what their futures may hold. As chair of the Student Activities Council for the Midwest Healthcare Executives Group and Associates (MHEGA), O'Shaughnessey coordinates the event for the organization.

She carefully orchestrates the pairing of one student with one healthcare executive so that both parties will enjoy the exchange and reap the most from the day's activities. As the day unfolds, students and executives discover the benefits of the introduction.

"The executives see what the students are learning and understand what is being presented in the classroom," says O'Shaughnessey. "The students see how to apply what they are being taught and that the knowledge gained in the classroom is relevant to their future careers."

A rewarding ending
During her day, Roland crossed paths with UDM alumnus Tyra Tomlin, director of the CHM off-site ambulatory network. Their discussion led to an internship at the off-site ambulatory center in Southfield for Roland.

"I strongly recommend that students participate in Job Shadow Day because you learn, network and meet important contacts," says Roland.

The optimistic student feedback also pleases O'Shaughnessey and validates that her dedication to the program can make a positive impact on the future of these students.

Roland with Herman Gray, president of Children's Hospital of Michigan.