Vandy in Health

This community gives access to resources, events, and career advice for students interested in careers in healthcare. We encourage you to use this space to help you make an informed decision about the area(s) you want to engage in for volunteering, internships, and your career.

Welcome!

The Vandy in Health Community is dedicated to supporting you as you explore diverse careers in the healthcare industry. Whether you’re interested in healthcare strategy and leadership, fascinated by the intersection of healthcare and technology, or motivated by the challenges of public health, there’s a place for you in this ever-evolving field.

Through advising, mentorship programs, networking events, informational panels, and hands-on experiences, we aim to empower you to find your passion, show you how a career in healthcare can align with various skills, and help you build a rewarding career.

If you are interested in direct patient care, please refer to the Health Professions Advisory Office (HPAO), which specializes in pre-medical advising and supports students aiming for medical school and other health professional programs.

Your Community Contact

  • Beatrice Juskeviciute

    Beatrice Juskeviciute

    Career Coach

  • Erica M. Betz

    Erica M. Betz

    Director of External Partner Engagement

Drop In Hours

Health Specific Drop In Hours

Do you have industry-specific questions? Drop in hours are a great place to have your application materials reviewed, understand industry recruiting timelines, and learn how to get connected to top employers in your industry!

  • These drop ins are similar to standard drop ins except they will be reserved for students interested in health related industries.
  • No appointment needed and these conversations can last up to 15 minutes.
  • View drop-in hours.

Note: Drop ins are not held when classes are not in session (holiday breaks, exam days, inclement weather, etc).

Vandy in health
  • ExploreHealthCareers.org is a useful resource for those taking their first steps in exploring the healthcare field. It provides detailed information about different health professions, educational requirements, and career outlooks, offering insights into the diverse opportunities and pathways available.
  • Fastest Growing Occupations: This U.S. Bureau of Labor resource provides up-to-date information on the fastest-growing careers, including many occupations within the healthcare field that are experiencing significant growth. It can help students and professionals make informed decisions about their career paths by highlighting emerging trends and opportunities in the healthcare field, ensuring they are prepared for future job market demands.
  • Optimize Your Resume: Today, many companies within the field use Applicant Tracking Systems (ATS) to manage high volumes of job applications. ATS electronically scan your resume, score your qualifications based on the description for that position, and rank your application. Recruiters rely on them to make their screening process more efficient. This resource can guide you through optimizing your resume for ATS in rapidly changing industries like healthcare.

While these resources are helpful for general career exploration and understanding the various opportunities in healthcare, specific questions, professional communication materials, and tailored advice require personalized guidance. To address your unique needs, you can schedule an appointment with a Vandy in Health Coach.

Recruitment Timeline

The healthcare sector is incredibly broad, covering a wide range of careers, and recruitment timelines can vary significantly depending on the specific field and type of position.

Variety in Timelines

Research, teaching, public health, management, and consulting opportunities can appear throughout the year.

For example, healthcare consulting jobs recruit more heavily in the summer and fall, while non-profit jobs tend to recruit more in the spring. You can get a general sense of what's "normal" for your field:

  • Biotechnology: August-December
  • Consulting: July-December
  • Healthcare: September-March

To stay informed, regularly check job postings, attend career fairs, and engage with industry professionals through networking events and mentorship programs. Be proactive in scheduling informational interviews early to ensure you are well-prepared for the recruitment process in your chosen field.

FAQs

  • What is Vandy in Health? How Can Vandy in Health Help Me if I’m Not on the Pre-med Path?

    Vandy in Health is a community dedicated to supporting students as they explore diverse careers in the healthcare industry. We provide resources, connections, and guidance for students interested in non-patient-facing healthcare careers, such as healthcare management, administration, public health and policy, health technology, life sciences research, and more.

    Vandy in Health offers a variety of resources, including advising, career workshops, networking events, and collaborative projects with healthcare organizations. These resources are designed to help you gain the skills and connections needed for a successful career in healthcare.

    While Vandy in Health programming is tailored to both patient-facing and non-patient-facing careers in healthcare, those who are interested in scheduling a pre-med advising appointment should refer to the Health Professions Advisory Office (HPAO).

  • How Can I Get Involved With Vandy in Health?

    You can get involved with Vandy in Health by attending our events, participating in workshops, and connecting with professionals through networking opportunities. Be on the lookout for Vandy in Health Week’s programming, which will take place from February 10-14 this year. Additionally, you can schedule an advising appointment with a Vandy in Health Coach to get personalized guidance and support.

  • Can Vandy Alum Meet with a Vandy in Health Coach?

    Yes, Vandy alumni can meet with a Vandy in Health Coach. We welcome alumni seeking guidance in exploring healthcare careers, transitioning into new roles within the healthcare industry, or seeking advice on further education and professional development. To schedule an appointment, please use Handshake or contact us directly to arrange a meeting.

  • What Skills Are Employers Looking For and How Can I Stand out in the Healthcare Industry?

    The healthcare industry is dynamic and constantly evolving, requiring professionals to possess a blend of technical and soft skills. To effectively stand out, it's crucial to both understand and demonstrate these skills.

    • Decoding Job Descriptions: Start by thoroughly reading job descriptions to identify specific skills required for the position. Look for keywords in the job summary and responsibilities sections. These keywords often highlight the core abilities and personal qualities needed. Tailor your resume to reflect these critical skills, providing evidence from your past roles and projects where you've demonstrated these abilities. If you are not applying for jobs yet, that can also be a great way to learn what employers are looking for and start working on building the skillset relevant to entry level positions in your field.
    • Networking: Networking is essential in the healthcare industry, with many jobs found through personal connections. Building a strong professional network can provide access to opportunities, enhance your understanding of various roles, and help you establish meaningful mentorship connections. Engaging in informational interviews allows you to learn about job roles and organizations from insiders, giving you a better understanding of the industry's language and trends. This proactive approach not only uncovers hidden job opportunities but also helps you tailor your application more effectively, making you a more attractive candidate.

    By combining a strategic approach to job applications with proactive networking, you can significantly improve your chances of standing out in the healthcare industry.

  • What Are the Key Steps to Landing a Dream Job in the Healthcare Industry?

    Landing a dream job in healthcare involves several key steps:

    • Self-Assessment: Identify your strengths, interests, and career goals.
    • Education and Training: Acquire the necessary education and certifications.
    • Gaining Experience: Gain relevant experience through internships, volunteer work, or entry-level positions.
    • Networking: Build a professional network through events, mentorship, and informational interviews.
    • Application Materials: Tailor your resume and cover letter to each job application.
    • Interview Preparation: Prepare thoroughly for interviews by researching the company and role.
    • Strategic Application: Apply strategically to positions that align with your goals.
    • Lifelong Development: Focus on continuous learning and career development.

     

    Approach each step systematically to successfully navigate the process and achieve your career goals.