Orientation Week 2013

By Lauren Wong

In a brief span of five days, not even the sweltering heat could keep 24 strangers from establishing new-found friendships and class cohesiveness. The class of 2015 kicked off the fall semester with Orientation week, which was filled with various activities and events. Being in a new environment, it took us some time to adjust and become acquainted with new faces. However, as the week progressed, we soon realized this was just the beginning of two incredible years we would share together.

Students at the ropes course

Dr. Vaughn, Professor and Director of the MHA Program, along with Ian Montgomery, Clinical Associate Professor and Executive in Residence, began our semester with the opening convocation. We became very familiar with the formality of introductions such as name, hometown, education, and an interesting fact; by the end I’m sure we had everyone’s bio memorized. However, it wasn't until the outdoor ropes course that we began to step out of our business professional attire into a more relaxed and inviting setting. We thoroughly enjoyed each others' company as we illustrated determination, enthusiasm, and collaboration. We all could agree that the UI High Adventure Challenge Course, group picnic, and the kickball tournament were the highlights of our week and was the beginning of our class camaraderie.

Orientation week was the start of many memories to come; but most importantly, it showed how thoroughly excited everyone is to be a part of the Iowa Health Management & Policy program. At the end of the memorable week, it was evident that we were all here for the same reasons: to become professionals and develop into exceptional healthcare leaders. The Class of 2015 is filled with determined and motivated individuals who are on a path towards continued growth and success with the help of our classmates, professors, and healthcare professionals.

HMP Class of 2015