Brittany, traditional student"I started out as a biology major. I wanted to find a career that would allow me to have an impact on human health without being a nurse or physician. Health Information Management was a major I found that would prepare me for a great career in healthcare that was related to patient care but did not involve hands-on patient care. I wanted an education and degree that would give me a competitive edge over others who have the experience but not the education."
"Initially I expected this major to be more related to information processes and medical records. But I soon found out that this major prepared you with management skills. The faculty impressed me with their diverse educational backgrounds and practical work experience and knowledge of the field."
"As you begin the major, the courses start out gradually. Initially, each course is narrowly defined. I wasn't sure that some of the courses I was taking fit in with the whole scheme of things. But as I started my senior year, it all came together! It suddenly made sense as to why I was taking these courses!"
"It has been very positive for me. As a married student being pulled in different directions, it is difficult, but that is why I enjoy it. I like being challenged. The challenging aspect will help prepare me for the real world."
"The dynamic and professional faculty encourage us in getting through the process. They want us to succeed in the classes and the real world!"
Rebecca, traditional student, member of ISU Big Red Marching Machine"At first, I was an English major and I came across an advertisement for a major that developed professionals in healthcare and did not involve blood! It sounded interesting and was a much better alternative to writing papers the rest of my life! I didn't know much about the major. I was worried about some of the pre-requisite courses like anatomy."
"I found the major to be very detail oriented which is what I really like. I don't regret my decision to change majors at all. It is more practical and applied than my previous major."
"The courses are challenging but not extremely difficult. You need to keep on top of things or you get way behind. I am also in the marching band at ISU. We practice six hours per week plus weekend performances. But I have been able to pursue both interests without difficulty."
Debbie, RHIA"I started Midwest Medical Record Associates, Inc approximately 10 years ago with one hospital. Today we provide release of information services for over 60 hospitals from New York to Arizona. We have been successful as a company, because we employ credentialed health information professionals as our managers. I have hired over eight graduates from ISU and the majority of them still work for us.
I also take students for ISU for internships, because I believe in supporting the program and the profession. In addition, several of our managers started as management interns.
My education at ISU was the first step in my professional journey."