NYMC > School of Health Sciences and Practice (SHSP) > SHSP Alumni Profiles > Linda Assante

Linda Assante, M.P.H. '12 - Behavioral Sciences and Health Promotion

   Linda Assante
   

What made you choose New York Medical College?

Since the program was geared toward working professionals, I had the ability to jump right in and get started. Specifically, since GREs were not required, I was able to apply and start classes within just a few months. Additionally, the class schedule and options fit my needs as a working professional.

What is your fondest memory of New York Medical College? 

Learning from Dr. Penny Liberatos in the program planning and evaluation courses as well as the capstone. Her courses were very interesting and informative and I learned many relevant constructs that I continue to apply to my practical real world experience. Another one was learning from Dr. Martin Diner, his course covering the impact of stress on health was fantastic - extremely interesting and enjoyable.

What is your current professional role/position and some highlights of your career track? 

Currently I'm a Senior Project Manager for the New York State (NYS) funded Medicaid Health Home Program at a FQHC that was designated to be a lead Health Home in ten counties of NYS. It's a relatively new and developing program. The role of the lead is to provide regulatory oversight of subcontracted care management agencies that provide Health Home care management. In my role as the Senior Project Manager, I provide support for various components of the operations including regular communication with our subcontracted partners, staff supervision and oversight, and staying current on relevant NYS policy. This role was a fitting transition into the public health field given my prior professional experience in providing care management and having an undergraduate degree in social work. I am also a Certified Health Education Specialist (CHES) and recently completed a Worksite Wellness Certificate program as part of my continuing education. I have a strong interest in this area and would love to do some work in this field in the future.

Based on your experiences, what advice would you give to future students and/or future alumni of New York Medical College?  

Make the most of your capstone and practicum. They both have a great impact on your learning and your career path, especially if you put a lot into them. If possible, identify other diverse opportunities for field experience in addition to the practicum because it will have a positive impact on your learning and open up your career path.

When you're not working, where are you most likely to be found/what are you most likely to be doing? 

Working, always working. The healthcare field is constantly changing and that means there's a lot of work to be done to stay current in this dynamic environment. All kidding aside, I spend my free time with my family and friends and staying active and healthy.