Former Competitive Figure Skater and MSHC Student, Andrew Korda, Aims to Promote Health Literacy, Research
Andrew M. Korda (MET’21)
Graduate Assistant for Children’s Programming and Figure Skating, Physical Education, Recreation, and Dance Department (PERD), Boston University
MS, Health Communication; BLS, Interdisciplinary Studies
This interview was originally published in summer 2020. Andrew has since accepted the position of Coach for the Boston University Figure Skating Team.
What compelled you to return to school and pursue a graduate education? What is your long-term objective?
I come from a family deeply rooted in the health sector and entrepreneurship. One relative was the first CEO of the original Blue Cross health insurance company in Maine; others founded the leading mental health nonprofit in the state. They demonstrated for me the powerful impact of healthcare on society. In my own professional endeavors, as president and founder of the New England Hearing Alliance I pioneered creative solutions that lowered access barriers to hearing healthcare.
After working in the private health sector as a general manager, I knew I needed to pursue a master’s degree to zero in on the work I felt most passionate about. In the longer term, I hope to bring my experience and knowledge to the directorship of a larger health system to promote medical advancements, research, and health literacy through multi-platform communications modalities.
Why did you choose BU MET for your graduate studies? What set BU MET apart from other programs you were considering?
My primary interest is innovative delivery models for healthcare: telemedicine, global health systems, etc. While I considered other programs, I knew I wanted to stay at BU (where I was an undergrad). The Master of Science in Health Communication (MSHC) program offered exactly what I was looking for: an immersive, online platform that allowed me to really dive deeply into digital learning. It also inadvertently enriched my education when the COVID-19 crisis gave us proof that remote learning is not only possible but vital for the healthcare sector.
Is there a particular faculty member from your courses who has enhanced your experience at BU MET? Who and why?
I can think of no person who better exemplifies enthusiasm for growth than MSHC Director Leigh Curtin-Wilding, MSc. I am at the mid-point of this program, and have had the pleasure of receiving Leigh’s feedback and insight on multiple occasions. She has pushed me to take academic concepts and apply them to real-world programs. One of my standout academic projects investigated the mental health resources available to students on campus, and the key role played by athletic coaches and trainers. Director Curtin-Wilding’s grasp of the implications of what health communications can do has inspired me.
How do you apply concepts you are learning in your courses at BU MET in your current job or internship?
Innovation comes to mind. Without the online learning experience that the MSHC program offered, I would not have been as successful in helping my employer—after COVID shut down our in-person instruction—implement a smooth transition to online skating classes. With regard to healthcare, it’s been eye-opening to build a knowledge base that supports the business and patient decisions I made in my previous health sector work. Several MSHC projects have provided deep insight into how I would further improve existing programs. I am grateful that I now have a robust digital portfolio of my work. My MSHC experience has solidified my understanding of the important role that communications plays in awareness and promotion of healthcare.
What is currently, in your opinion, the most valuable thing that BU MET provides you?
From undergrad though my current master’s program, BU MET has offered the tools and flexibility that allow a less traditional student like me to reach their potential. Coming to college after a life of competitive figure skating was never going to be a traditional path; MET helped me take prior coursework and apply it toward an undergraduate degree program in Interdisciplinary Studies. My first job offer came swiftly after graduation. After working for a few years and deciding that I was ready to pursue a master’s program, MET was there again. BU MET has provided me with the knowledge and tailored expertise to respond to the needs of health communications today.
Is there anything else you would like to add?
Health Communication matters. Now, more than ever, I feel fortunate to have been able to study the role that health communicators play in presenting accurate and powerful health messaging to our audiences. From class research and my own writing, I have been able to provide my fellow BU students with evidence-based recommendations to help identify stressors and examine the importance of reaching out for mental health assistance. The MSHC program has opened doors to so many experiences and enriched my pursuit of a Master of Science degree far beyond my expectations.