Freed-Hardeman University Alumni Inspire Aspiring Healthcare Providers at Prescription for Success Event

Freed-Hardeman University connected healthcare alumni from 11 diverse health professions with students preparing for careers in the medical field during its annual Prescription for Success event. Launched in 2017, the program offers real-world advice, dynamic discussions and networking opportunities that empower attendees to make informed decisions about their futures.

Wendy Gean, assistant professor of biology at FHU, highlighted the event’s impact: “The Prescription for Success event brings Freed-Hardeman alumni from different health arts professions back to Henderson to meet with students who are in the process of becoming healthcare providers. This event provides students who are unsure of their path with more clarity while also providing committed students with insight into their near futures.”

FHU senior Dan Chang, who is pre-med, made a presentation on Remote Area Medical

Among the alumni was Grace Yates, a 2016 biology graduate and occupational therapist from Springfield, Tennessee. Yates encouraged students to pursue their passions and advised them to ask, “Where’s your heart?” Reflecting on her journey, Yates shared, “I wish I had known more about the process of getting into occupational therapy school. It’s important to understand what applying to school looks like and to ensure that your program is accredited.”

Michael McCutchen, a family physician and FHU alumnus practicing in Mount Juliet, Tennessee, offered practical advice to the aspiring healthcare providers. “Don’t study just to know the answers on a test. Learn the concepts – you’ll be much better in your career,” McCutchen advised. He also stressed the importance of resilience, noting, “You will make mistakes. How you respond is what defines you as a person. Medicine is a practice for a reason.”

A health arts alumna gives a presentation

Sophomore nursing student Mia McAlister attended the event to gain a deeper understanding of what it’s like to work in the healthcare field. Jordan Underwood, a biochemistry graduate and aspiring children’s anesthesiologist, underscored the importance of internships and networking for those pursuing specialized fields. Additionally, Mariah Bryant, a sophomore in the PTA program, and Taleigha Woodley, a communications disorders major, sought advice and tips for navigating their respective paths.

Senior pre-med student Dan Chang, who is interested in surgery and general practice, shared how the event’s lessons resonated with him. “Ms. Gean prepares us for the healthcare field with knowledge you can’t put into textbooks. The best advice I’ve heard was to get a mentor. It’s all about mentors. They’ve changed my life.” Following the most recent Prescription for Success event, Chang was inspired by McCutchen who shared that a career in medicine does not mean giving up a personal life. “As a pre-med student who worries about work-life balance, it is comforting to know that it is possible to maintain a healthy lifestyle, even as a physician.”

Wendy Gean, assistant professor of biology at FHU addresses the students

Gean added, “Our health arts alumni are amazing as they are always willing to pour their knowledge into our students. These professionals know what it is like to try to build the experience set required to enter healthcare, and they want to make sure our students have the opportunities needed to be competitive applicants.”

Since its inception, the Prescription for Success event has continued to evolve, ensuring students are well-prepared for their future roles in healthcare, bolstered by the wisdom and encouragement of FHU’s passionate alumni.