Hannah McGuire

A Passion for Healthcare Leadership
Health management and policy student Hannah McGuire

Name: Hannah McGuire
Hometown: North Canaan, Connecticut
Major: Health Management and Policy
Graduation Year: 2020

Looking back on your time at UNH so far, what are you most proud of and why?
I am most proud of my campus involvement during my time at UNH. I came into college knowing that I was passionate about leadership and being involved on campus, but wasn't sure exactly how to go about it. I quickly found my niche by joining a variety of organizations which helped me to form connections and be presented with opportunities I never would have imagined having.

What motivates you?
As a first generation college student I feel motivated to make my parents and family proud! I am privileged to have the opportunity to receive a college education and I want to make the most of it. My passion for healthcare also drives me to learn more about the industry and understand how it may be improved or how I may contribute to patient care.

Why did you choose your major?
Upon my acceptance to UNH I was an Athletic Training major, come orientation I decided that Occupational Therapy would be right for me, and while I enjoyed and respected both majors I knew that Health Management and Policy was the place for me after taking an introductory course with Professor Anne Jamieson. I knew I needed to be in the healthcare field and paired with my passion for leadership HMP was the perfect combination of the two.

What are you planning to do after graduation?
I am currently in the process of applying to the Direct Entry Master's in Nursing program here at UNH which is designed for students who were non-clinical in undergrad. My passion for healthcare and leadership may continue through this program which prepares students for a career in Clinical Nurse Leadership. Throughout four years in healthcare and my internship I have realized that I am interested in being involved in direct patient care.

How is your experience at UNH preparing you to achieve your goals?
Being part of HMP has helped to set me up for success. The small department has created a community that I can always turn to for support in my academics and career aspirations. The professors are so invested in student success and have helped to guide me down the path that I am on, for which I am so grateful!

Any advice for students interested in your major?
My advice would be to take advantage of all the opportunities that present themselves. It's easy to say no and turn things down, but you'll be amazed at the connections and success you will find from putting yourself out there and immersing yourself in the field.

Finally, tell us one reason you love UNH.
I love the community that UNH students, faculty and staff create. My involvement on campus in a variety of clubs such as Student Organization of Healthcare Leaders (SOHL), Dance Marathon, Memorial Union Board of Governors, and Alpha Xi Delta has truly shaped my UNH experience and I am so thankful that UNH has so much to offer its students.