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.
Lizbeth Hernandez
Employer: IU Melvin and Bren Simon Comprehensive Cancer Center
Current position: Clinical Research Specialist
Location: Indianapolis, IN
Degree(s): Bachelor of Science in Health Services Management, 2022
Why did you choose your major/program?
I always knew I wanted to work in healthcare but I was unaware of all the available roles and career opportunities. I found out about the HSM program through my advisor. Many of my skills and interests helped me connect with this program. It’s amazing what happens behind the scenes in healthcare and I really wanted to play a role in that.
Do you have any research interests?
My grandmother passed away from ovarian cancer, therefore I was always curious to learn about what occurs behind the scenes during these vulnerable moments. Cancer research is a whole different world. I have learned so much in so little time. Every day I come in to work, I learn something new and that’s what it should be about: to never stop learning. The work that is being done here is astonishing. I’m excited for what the future will bring and the impact that it will make, not only to our community, but to individuals across the country.
Briefly describe your career path.
I always worked during my college years and also spent a lot of time volunteering at Paws’ Pantry. I spent some time working as a patient service representative at the IU School of Dentistry. I also worked for Campus Health during the pandemic. I started off doing Covid testing and with time I played a role as an oversight leader. During the summers I would go back home and work in the RV manufacturing industry. It was very hard physical work but I learned a lot and it definitely helps build character.
Describe what an average day for you might be like.
My role includes consenting patients to participate in cancer research. Our research is not a treatment study. We collect specimens and bodily fluids (blood, tumors, etc) from patients, bank them, and send them out to researchers across the nation, including to the National Cancer Institute. I also do some work by helping send out shipments. I core and package specimens down at the lab and send them out to the researcher that requested them. There are also projects that we are assigned to work on, which are great learning opportunities.
What advice would you give your college self about pursuing your current career path or industry?
To stop worrying so much and focus on the present. I spent a lot of time worrying about what the future would look like. Now looking back, I am in a position that I never imagined having but I’m happy and still learning every day.
What is a lesson learned at FSPH that you have been able to apply to your career?
As repetitive as it may sound, NETWORK. Create connections/relationships with your professors and at your internships. Stay active on LinkedIn. Also, attend events in school where you can meet professionals in your field. Unfortunately, a degree is just a degree if you don’t put yourself out there and meet people that you can learn from and help you throughout your journey.
The application process is so competitive and it’s so much easier when you have those connections. It also helps you navigate the different careers that are out there.
What is the most significant thing that’s happened to you since graduating?
The most significant thing that happened to me was having the opportunity to secure a job right after graduation. It was something I was always worried about but I feel like the HSM program does a great job of preparing its students and handing them the right tools to be successful. Also, focusing on my timeline other than those who surround me has always been important to me.
Being a first-gen student, there are many hardships I faced alone in a whole new city away from my loved ones. Being able to say that I graduated and right after, secured a job that I knew I would enjoy is something so valuable to me. There were times when I could not see the end of the tunnel but I’m here now and this is just the beginning!
What’s next for you?
I decided to stay here in Indianapolis because there are more opportunities for me here than back home (Ligonier, IN). As of now I’m focused on learning more in my current career and growing as a professional. I’m hoping in the next year or two to continue my education.
What is your favorite IUPUI/FSPH memory?
My favorite memory was probably all of our capstone classes. Sarah Johnson poured her heart out and helped us prepare for life after graduation. Our last class was very emotional and I knew everything I learned during my time with Sarah were things I will bring along with me throughout my journey.
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