With her demanding work schedule as a nurse leader—two 12-hour and two 8-hour shifts each week—finding time to further her education was a challenge for Nicole Tan. So, she was gratified by the Vanderbilt MMHC program’s flexibility, which includes in-person classes on Thursday nights, 2 weekend classes per module, and recorded TA sessions on Zoom. The format, she says, “allowed me to integrate my studies seamlessly with my professional responsibilities” and was “crucial to my success.”

The program also required adaptability in one other respect: Nicole had completed her previous education in her native Philippines. “As a Filipina,” she says, “the emphasis on personal scale significantly impacted my experience [at Vanderbilt]. The smaller class sizes and faculty engagement created a welcoming environment where I felt seen and heard, which was incredibly important as I navigated the challenges of adjusting to a new education system. The strong alumni network offered guidance and support from those who understood the journey of international students. This close-knit community not only aided my academic growth but provided a sense of belonging and confidence.”

Nicole particularly singled out program director Burch Wood for his personalized advice, as well as program manager Kellie Crumpton, who facilitated networking opportunities and “made my transition back to academia smoother and more manageable. Their dedication to student success greatly enhanced my learning experience.”

Looking back, she describes that experience as transformative. “The program equipped me with a profound understanding of the intersection between healthcare and business management, enabling me to tackle complex challenges with innovative solutions. Through a curriculum that blends theory with practical application, I’ve gained insights into strategic decision-making, operational efficiency, and leadership—skills essential for driving improvements in healthcare delivery and patient care.”

Fun Fact: Nicole co-owns a restaurant in the Philippines, blending her love for food with her entrepreneurial spirit—while also celebrating her heritage. 

The program equipped me with a profound understanding of the intersection between healthcare and business management, enabling me to tackle complex challenges with innovative solutions.