Congratulations to Hamnah Khan '24, Health Science, who has been selected as the 2024 Ann Marie Brown Memorial Scholarship recipient. This $2,000 scholarship is awarded annually by the Nassau-Suffolk Hospital Council (NSHC) and its Communications Committee.
Hamnah recently received her bachelor's degree in health science, with a concentration in healthcare management this spring from the School of Health Professions. She is currently a master of health administration graduate student at Stony Brook University.
How did your undergraduate studies and degree in health science prepare you for your graduate program?
Stony Brook's undergraduate studies in health science laid a solid foundation for the demands of the graduate health administration program at Stony Brook Medicine. For example, the healthcare management courses I completed during my senior year closely aligned with the graduate curriculum, equipping me with essential skills in academic writing and case study analysis that have proven to be invaluable.
How did your undergraduate studies and degree in health science prepare or inspire you regarding your career aspirations?
My undergraduate degree greatly inspired my career aspirations in health administration by revealing the extensive and vital role this field plays within healthcare. While many people primarily think of frontline workers and clinical staff, I learned that health administrators are equally essential to the system's success. The courses I took during my senior year highlighted the often-overlooked "behind-the-scenes" aspects of healthcare, such as quality improvement, marketing, finance, and compliance. This comprehensive exposure, along with the insights from my experienced professors, not only deepened my understanding but also ignited my passion for pursuing a career in this crucial field.
Was there a class or professor that stands out the most as making a difference?
The Health Science Department is home to a remarkable group of knowledgeable and supportive professors, each of whom has played a valuable role in my educational journey. I am particularly grateful for the helpful resume tips from Professor Laura McNamara and the guidance Dr. Deborah Zelizer provided during the MHA application process. One class that had a profound impact on me was HAN 432: Introduction to Health Care Management, taught by Professor Brian DeFeo. This course provided valuable insights into the different roles and responsibilities of healthcare managers. I also deeply appreciated Professor DeFeo's unwavering support and encouragement, especially when he generously wrote my recommendation letter for the Ann Marie Brown Scholarship!
The Ann Marie Brown Memorial Scholarship honors the memory of the late Vice President for Government and Public Relations of the Nassau-Suffolk Hospital Council, a professional organization that represents Long Island’s not-for-profit and public hospitals. Ann Marie was a high profiled leader, committed advocate, and respected professional. This award was established to perpetuate her principles and interests.
