In 2014, Mississippi native Megan Cammarota, MLS ’21, started a job in compliance at a durable medical equipment company, which ignited her passion for healthcare compliance and regulations. That passion has carried Cammarota far. She received a Bachelor of Science in Health Services Administration from Drexel University in 2019 and, shortly after graduating, she matriculated in Kline Law’s Master of Legal Studies (MLS) program, concentrating in Healthcare Compliance Law and Human Resources Compliance.
Cammarota recently answered a few questions about her experience in the MLS program.
Was there a moment or experience when you knew the MLS program was right for you?
Working in the healthcare field for over 17 years, with experience in healthcare compliance, policy and procedure, and healthcare regulations, I have always dreamed of becoming a compliance officer within the healthcare field. Once I graduated from Drexel University with my bachelor’s in health policy and administration, I learned that Drexel has the master’s degree in legal studies. I realized that the Kline Law MLS program was for me when I learned I could have a dual concentration in healthcare compliance and human resources compliance. Both concentrations focus on regulatory laws and compliance, which is a perfect opportunity for me to pursue my dreams.
Why did you pick your concentration in the program?
I have worked for over 17 years in the healthcare industry. I started with bedside patient care and fell into healthcare compliance, discovering I have a passion for it. I have always wanted to have a career dealing with the legal aspects of an organization. Learning that I could do a double concentration in two of my career interests while learning more on the major elements within the legal realm had me ecstatic!
What impact has the program had on you?
One of the most rewarding aspects of the MLS program is being a part of the Drexel family. Becoming an MLS student ambassador has been extremely rewarding. I love to be involved in the community and to help others. Being a student ambassador has given me the opportunity to meet other online students while guiding them toward their educational goals. Making a positive impact on others makes me happy. The MLS program has helped me build my networking while increasing my learning opportunities. It has also given me personal growth, which is preparing me for my specialized career goals.
What has your experience of online learning in the MLS program been like?
“Virtual” is the new way of life, from the classroom to the workplace. Online learning is rewarding. It allows for students to balance their lives. From working full-time to being a full-time homemaker to an online student, online learning allows for flexibility within your studies. I have previously completed college degrees online, and I have enjoyed every moment online learning had to offer. Online learning has given me the experience to self-engage, self-teach, and challenge myself. Online learning capitalizes on self-satisfaction. Online learning is self-rewarding. The MLS program will provide students with new abilities to develop and enhance their continued education, make changes within their careers, or simply provide advancements in their proficiencies and skills.
Do you have any advice for graduate students new to online learning?
Returning to college as an adult student while working full-time or raising a family can be challenging, but it can be done. Regardless of your doubts, you are not alone. Take the initiative and start pursuing your ambitions! Make friends with your classmates; it gives you mental support to know you have someone who can relate to you. Stay organized, plan out your weekly assignments, and always check your emails for upcoming due dates or announcements from your professors.