SSU health care administration graduate uses degree to help those with developmental disabilities

A 2017 health care administration graduate, Maranda Meyer found a passion within her degree at Shawnee State University that has led her to a rewarding career.

“I chose a business major in healthcare because I have always had a passion to help others in some form,” she said. “But I also like the business aspect.”

After completing her degree, Meyer began working as a human resources assistant with a local hospital. Two years into her career, she decided to pursue her passion for helping individuals with developmental disabilities as a Qualified Intellectual Disabilities Professional. In this role, Meyer’s work led her to helping those with traumatic brain injuries and teaching them basic life skills to help regain their independence.

“After having experience in both Human Resources and helping individuals with developmental disabilities, it only felt right to find a job that I could pursue both of my passions,” she said.

Now working as a human resources manager, Meyer uses her position to help develop and guide others toward their professional goals.

“In my current role, it is my responsibility to employ direct support professionals and nurses to assist individuals with developmental disabilities in their home,” she said.

In her position, Meyer loves to work on professional development of other employees as well as the individuals she serves.

“If someone is interested in pursuing a career in human resources, I would encourage them to complete their internship hours with a human resources director in their field of interest,” she said. “I would also encourage them to explore different facilities such as a hospital, group homes, and the medical field in general as healthcare is in high demand for those looking to pursue a career.”

SSU’s health care administration degree allows students to gain a broad liberal arts background to pair with focused studies on healthcare management – including accounting, problem management, administration, marketing, and economics as they relate to healthcare.

The degree offers two tracks – health care administration and long-term care administration. The program is available in-person with an accommodating schedule for working professionals as well as completely online.

To learn more about the health care administration program at Shawnee State University, visit www.shawnee.edu/healthcare-administration.