Alum Recalls “Deeply Motivating” Collaborative Environment at BU MET
Rebecca Handler (MET’23)
Engagement Manager, Stanford University School of Medicine
MS, Health Communication
This interview was originally published in spring 2024.
What compelled you to return to school and pursue a graduate education? What is your long-term objective?
My undergraduate focus on cognitive science and neuropsychology sparked my passion for science and healthcare, but I sought a specific niche where I could integrate my love for writing and creativity. Health communications emerged as the perfect intersection of these interests. My graduate education at MET was a strategic step to refine my expertise, particularly in healthcare and life-science communications.
My long-term objective is to be a leading voice in the field of health communications and to use my skills to help shape narratives that positively influence both public health outcomes and individual health choices.
Why did you choose MET for your graduate studies? What set MET apart from other programs you were considering?
MET stood out for its pioneering approach to healthcare communications. I enrolled in the program in 2021, at a time when the world was recognizing the urgent need for skilled health communication experts to help disseminate accurate, accessible information and combat misinformation. This period underscored the critical role of effective communication in managing public health crises, guiding policy decisions, and shaping the public’s understanding and response to health emergencies.
What also drew me to this program was BU’s multidisciplinary approach to health communications. The topics ranged from epidemiology to healthcare policy, which prepares you for a variety of roles in the health sector.
Additionally, as a full-time professional, the flexibility of MET’s virtual MS in Health Communication program was a crucial factor. This allowed me to balance my career with asynchronous studies and virtual classes. (It also gave me the unique opportunity to immediately apply new skills I was learning in the classroom to my job!) Additionally, despite the remote nature of the program, I never felt cut off from the power of the BU community and all that it has to offer. Outside of the immersive classes, BU also offered great career guidance, including personal career coaching and resume reviews.
Have you been able to use faculty as a resource? Is there a particular faculty member who has enhanced your experience at MET? Who and why?
Absolutely! The faculty at MET were an invaluable resource throughout my studies. Among them, Leigh Curtin-Wilding had a particularly significant impact on my experience. Her expertise and mentorship have been pivotal in my educational journey. We collaborated on a project called Career Night, an initiative that provided practical insights into the health communication field. During this event, I had the unique opportunity to interview a health communication journalist about his novel, The Long Haul. This experience not only deepened my understanding of the real-world applications of health communication but also enhanced my interviewing and communication skills.
Is there a particular course project that you would like to spotlight? How do you apply concepts you are learning in your courses at MET in your current job (if applicable)?
The Writing for Health (MET HC 561) course was particularly impactful. A notable project involved translating complex medical or healthcare topics into simple, easy-to-understand language. This skill is crucial in ensuring medical compliance and accessibility of vital information to a broad audience, regardless of their medical knowledge.
I currently serve as director of communications at Open Medicine Foundation, a global organization spearheading medical research into chronic and complex diseases across leading academic institutions, including Harvard and Stanford. In my job, I often handle intricate research data, and find I apply my Writing for Health skills daily. I strive to convey complex information in a straightforward manner, making it comprehensible to general audiences. This practice not only improves communication but also enhances understanding and engagement with the material.
Does the classroom environment offer opportunities to network or build industry connections with fellow students or with faculty?
Absolutely! While at BU, I worked from 9 am to 5 pm, and would fondly refer to grad school as my “five to nine.” Although that may sound grueling, I really looked forward to my weekly virtual classes. They were a fantastic platform to engage with and learn from other professionals in the field (many of whom were also working full-time).
My classmates came from various sectors of healthcare—from practicing physicians to public policy experts. Each brought unique insights and personal experiences, enriching our discussions and broadening my perspective. I found that what truly unified us, professors, and students alike, was a deep-rooted passion for enhancing healthcare outcomes. This shared drive created a dynamic, collaborative environment that was not just educational but also deeply motivating and purpose driven.
Now, even months out from graduating, I am still very connected to the BU community. Not only have I made lifelong friends in the program, but a BU classmate of mine recently joined my communications team at Open Medicine Foundation!
What is currently, in your opinion, the most valuable thing that BU MET provides you?
The most valuable aspect of BU MET for me is the ability to blend academic rigor with practical application. The program’s focus on real-world skills and current industry practices has been invaluable. The curriculum’s relevance to my work in health communications meant I could immediately apply what I learned in the classroom to my role at Open Medicine Foundation. This not only enhanced my professional capabilities but allowed me to make meaningful contributions to my current organization, and any organization I may join in the future.
Additionally, the networking opportunities and the sense of community at BU MET are exceptional. These relationships have provided me with a wealth of resources and support, both during my studies and as I continue in my career.
Congratulations on your graduation! Looking back, what do you consider to be the main ingredients of your success?
The classes move fast—each course is seven weeks. At first this was intimidating, but as I progressed in the program, I found that the key to success was time management and open communication with professors and course facilitators. All my professors and facilitators were responsive and kind. They created a welcoming environment where I felt I could ask any question and receive direct feedback on my work.
When it comes to time management, my best advice is to start early on the big assignments, establish a consistent study routine, and break down tasks into manageable chunks.
What’s next for you? If you are changing roles, moving on to a new career, or receiving any promotion, we would love to hear about it. Would you say your program helped prepare you for the next phase of your life/career/education?
I’m thrilled to have a very exciting new opportunity in the healthcare communications space. I am now the Engagement Manager at Stanford University School of Medicine. I know without a doubt that Boston University MET’s Health Communication program helped prepare me for this next adventure. I hope to stay connected with the BU community and to continue giving back to the program that gave so much to me.