I chose healthcare administration because it was a natural calling for me. Early on I wanted to be a nurse; however I learned quickly that hands on clinical care was not my strong suit. I enjoy the healthcare field and wanted to help people. Growing up in New York City in Spanish Harlem, the choices were limited in my neighborhood. My mother always told me that if I put my mind to it, there wasn’t anything I couldn’t accomplish. I believed her and worked very hard in school.
I witnessed incredible acts of violence during high school. I wanted to do something for others, since this is what made me feel good. I was raised by a single parent. I knew that college was an option, but how we would pay for college was a mystery. I left to serve my country not knowing what I wanted to do as a career, the only thing I had been motivated by was that my uncle went to medical school and became a doctor. This inspired me to work hard and dream BIG. In my first duty assignment, I had a great leader. He pushed me to do and be my very best. He would always say “I see something great in you”. Although at times I could not see this in myself.
When things got tough, as they sometimes did being the only female in my position, I would look for ways to accomplish my goals without sacrificing quality. I knew I wanted to be a good example to others. My exposure to healthcare administration while serving my country was what I needed. I knew this was a career that would allow me to assist clinicians, patients and their family members. I would be able to help people. This was just what I was looking for. I was amazed as to the many options in this field I had. I have been enjoying working as a Health Information Manager. The great mentors I have encountered always encouraged me while challenging me. They challenged me to go to school and earn my degree. I did begin while in the service, however had to place my personal goals on hold since on-line classes weren’t even heard of. I knew I needed to go back to school and achieve a goal I put on hold.
I am a veteran and a military spouse. I have three daughters that are also proudly serving their country. I wanted to lead by example and show them that mom will work hard besides them as they accomplish their dreams of a college degree. Achieving my BS in Healthcare administration will allow me to help others accomplish their educational goals. I want to be an educator of Healthcare Administration. I want to motivate those that cross my path and push them to search inside themselves and find the strength to accomplish a goal and become what they set out to become. I want to give back.
DiversityJobs.com’s scholarship program for diversity and minority students is proud to announce Mayra Solomon as one of the seven finalists for its August 2012 application deadline. Vote for her essay (Facebook ‘Like’ and other social media sharing options in left column), and/or leave comments of support to help us with the selection process.