The Never Ending Journey of HSAD Alumna Susan Feinstein
January 29, 2015
There are only a handful of people in this world who can work through multiple jobs, be unemployed for nine months, take care of three children, work full-time and also attend classes at night to get a bachelor’s degree-all while having a smile on their face. Such a person is Susan Feinstein, an alumna from Drexel’s Health Services Administration program who also happens to work for the department as the administrative coordinator.
Feinstein has had quite a journey throughout her life. She graduated high school but did not plan to go to college. From 1975 to 1995, she took up a job at Drexel University and worked her way up for 20 years. She then decided to try the Hotel and Restaurant business. She sacrificed her vacation time in order to attend those classes while still working full-time. In 1995, she left and got a position at a healthcare clinic. With no healthcare background, she learned the entire business from the ground up. She ended up staying in the practice for 15 years, after which she decided to take the next step and pursue the director position of the group clinic. Unfortunately, with no bachelor’s degree, she was unable to secure that position. As a result, she decided to go back to Drexel to achieve her Bachelor of Science in Health Services Administration.
“I had kids to take care of and bills to pay, but everything worked out. I learned everything from experience and my online courses helped me in my job and to cope with my staff,” said Feinstein. Feinstein accounts her success and ability to accomplish several tasks at once to time management. “The only thing that got me through all this was time management and knowing when and how to study,” explained Feinstein.
As far as advice goes, Feinstein truly believes that education leads to success. “You’re never too old to get a degree.”
Throughout her journey and struggles, Feinstein finds reward in helping current students at the College. “I love helping students and setting them on track to meet their goals” elaborated Feinstein. Feinstein continues to assist current students by showcasing her experience and that anything is possible.