Student Profile: Stephanie Hucker
Stephanie Hucker is a second-year doctoral student in the Health Policy and Management program.
Why did you choose UMass for your doctoral studies?
I chose UMass for my doctoral studies because of the opportunity to work with my advisor, Dr. Sarah Goff, and because of its location in Western Massachusetts. As a clinician myself (I have worked as a family nurse practitioner in community health for the past 10 years), I was thrilled about the opportunity to work with an experienced clinician-researcher. Dr. Goff’s mixed methods work on healthcare delivery is inspiring, and it is a privilege to learn from her. Additionally, I have lived in Western Massachusetts for the past six years, and I love it here! As a parent, I did not want to uproot my family to pursue a doctoral education, and UMass provided an excellent opportunity close to home.
What is your favorite part of being in the Health Policy and Management program and the School of Public Health and Health Sciences as a whole?
As a student in HPM and SPHHS, I constantly feel inspired by the work of my peers. Both students and faculty in the program are pursuing important research in creative and thoughtful ways. The healthcare climate can feel dismal right now, and I find their commitment to public health uplifting.
What career, research, or internship opportunities have you found by virtue of studying at the SPHHS?
One of my favorite parts of my education so far has been participating in studies managed by Dr. Goff’s lab, Quality for All Laboratory. Dr. Goff, Erin DeCou (Research Manager), and Berry Williams (Research Coordinator) provide a welcoming, enriching experience for students in the lab, and I have had opportunities to learn the mechanics of health services research.
How has your education helped you find success in any of these professional roles?
While in school, I have continued to practice as a family nurse practitioner in Springfield, MA. Through my education at UMass, I have obtained tools to better understand issues faced by my patients and have also identified ways to improve care. In the future, I hope to pursue a position in healthcare leadership that allows me to shape care delivery in order to improve the health of underserved populations.
What advice would you give prospective Health Policy and Management students?
My advice for prospective HPM students is to speak with as many students as possible about their experience here. There are many facets of the experience as a doctoral student (research, courses, work-life balance, etc.), and students can offer opinions and guidance on all of these topics.
