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Katherine De Luca
BS in Health Information Management
Class of 2023
Why did you decide to join the BS in Health Information Management program?
I completed a Medical Coding/Transcription certification program online through a local community college, but when I started looking for jobs many were looking for candidates with a bachelor’s degree or higher, so I decided to pursue a bachelor’s degree.
Why did you choose to continue your education online at CUNY SPS?
I did some research and found the BS in Health Information Management program at CUNY SPS to be highly rated, accredited, and fully online, which best suits my needs.
What was your motivation for returning to school for your bachelor’s degree?
I was formerly a dental hygienist and went through some life-changing events that prompted me to make a career change. I initially returned to school for a certification program but later decided to pursue a bachelor’s degree.
Which skills have you acquired during your time at CUNY SPS that you believe will help you excel in the HIM field?
With the program being completely online, I learned a lot of time management and organizational skills. I also became much more proficient with programs like Microsoft Excel and Access, and comfortable with concepts in health statistics, quality management, and much more.
Can you talk about the connections/relationships you formed with your professors and other CUNY SPS students?
Being that the program is 100% online I thought it might be difficult to make connections, but a number of us had the same classes together each semester and formed various WhatsApp groups to support one another, bounce ideas off each other, and work on projects together. A few of us have continued to stay in touch since graduation.
I was also comfortable enough with a few of my professors to ask for help in certain areas or letters of recommendation for grad school. They were always very responsive to emails and willing to help.
In which ways have you grown as a result of your studies at CUNY SPS?
My studies at CUNY SPS required a lot of dedication and hard work. I even worked through one semester while undergoing cancer treatment because I didn’t want to slow down my progress in life. My studies and my time at CUNY SPS gave me a sense of accomplishment and fulfillment I’m not sure I could’ve gotten anywhere else.
What kind of impact do you think your degree will have on your career/life?
This degree has and will continue to open doors. I have since decided to continue my education and pursue a master’s degree which I couldn’t have done without this degree.
Beyond that though, I tried to use my time at CUNY SPS to get involved in things I wouldn’t have before such as being a part of the Student Governing Council, the Faculty Student Disciplinary Committee, and being an ACE Mentor. It was a great learning experience to get a behind-the-scenes look into the world of academia and its policies and procedures, and I enjoyed being a support for five first-semester students during my last semester there. I learned valuable knowledge and skills in those things that I’m carrying with me into my career and life.
What advice would you offer someone who is considering an online program?
Go for it! There might be an adjustment period if you haven’t taken online classes before or if it’s been a while since you’ve been in school but take advantage of the resources available. Find a mentor, get involved, and make the most of the experience!
What does your future look like after CUNY SPS?
I am currently in my second semester of grad school and I’m loving it! My graduate program is also online and I felt well prepared for it after my time at CUNY SPS!