In our Alumni Career Spotlight series, you will meet some of our alumni and learn about the important work they are doing to create a healthier nation and world.
Alexa Abbott
Employer: Miller’s Health Systems
Current position: Executive Director
Location: Sullivan, IN
Degree(s): Bachelors – Health Services Management, IUPUI, 2020; MBA with a concentration in Health Administration, USI, 2021
Why did you choose your major/program?
I became a certified nursing assistant (CNA) in 2016 and quickly realized I did not want to be a nurse. Being an executive director is the best of both worlds. I get to interact with residents and I am involved in all of the day to day decisions and operations. Instead of direct patient care, I am more behind the scenes. I love it! That is why I decided to get my degree in health administration.
Briefly describe your career path.
I became a CNA in 2016 and worked as an aide through undergrad. In 2020, after graduation, I worked as a human resources specialist at Ascension. In 2021, I started with Miller’s Health Systems as an administrator-in-training. Once completing my training, I because a licensed health facility administrator (HFA) and started as the executive director in Sullivan, IN.
Describe what an average day for you might be like.
Crazy! Being the executive director, you are involved in every decision. Admissions, discharges, financials, staffing issues, interviewing, talking to families, COVID reporting to the CDC, and anything else that comes up. I am in charge of an assisting living and nursing home. There is always something going on or an issue that needs addressed.
What advice would you give your college self about pursuing your current career path or industry?
You will not get your dream job overnight. Do not get discouraged. Keep working hard!
What is a lesson learned at FSPH that you have been able to apply to your career?
Always network! Don’t be scared to ask for help.
What is the most significant thing that’s happened to you since graduating?
I never saw myself working in long term care. I always thought I was going to work in a hospital. Getting hired by Miller’s is the most significant thing that has happened since graduating.
What’s next for you?
Continue learning and growing as a health facility administrator.
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