Graduation Week 2021: Business administration grad focuses on future in health care management

When Whitney Whitaker learned James M. Hull College of Business at Augusta University offered a Bachelor of Business Administration with a concentration in health care management, she knew that was her future career path.

“I decided to seek a degree in health care administration/management because my goal has always been to get into health care,” Whitaker said. “During high school, I completed my CNA [certified nursing assistant] certification, but I soon realized I was easily triggered to pass out when seeing certain situations, so I knew I needed to find a different route. I have always loved management, so health care management was the perfect route for me.”

The BBA with a concentration in health care management at Augusta University is designed to help students like Whitaker develop the skills needed to manage the human and fiscal resources of health care facilities.

Whitaker, who is currently a property management analyst with Hull Property Group, cannot believe she is about to walk across the stage and receive her BBA degree on Friday, Dec. 10.

“It feels like just yesterday I was graduating high school,” said Whitaker, who is a native Augustan. “It has been a wild ride, but it has brought me many life lessons and memories. Walking across that stage will mean that I did it! I have had so many supporters behind every accomplishment, and I am so happy to fulfill this experience with them by my side.”

Whitaker said her loved ones couldn’t be prouder that she has earned her degree from Augusta University.

“My family and friends think the world of my accomplishments,” Whitaker said. “They have been there through it all and they have been nothing but encouraging. Whenever I had doubts, they would pick me right back up.”

She also received a great deal of support and encouragement from one of her favorite instructors, Dr. Stacy Roberts, a lecturer of management at Hull College.

“Dr. Stacy Roberts has really impacted my college experience,” Whitaker said. “Her dedication to her work and interaction with students is just amazing. Oftentimes, you feel your professors meet so many students and you are just another student to them, but Dr. Roberts makes sure to get to know each and every one of her students. I have had her for three classes now and I wish I could have all of them with her. She has truly inspired me to push through college and achieve my goals.”

After graduation, Whitaker plans to continue building her career and “enjoy every moment,” she said.

“I absolutely love my job at Hull Property Group and the opportunity it has given me. This company is nothing short of amazing,” she said. “I recommend other college students to reach out for internships or open positions.”

She would also recommend anyone interested in seeking a business degree to consider Hull College at Augusta University.

“My experience has been beyond phenomenal,” Whitaker said. “Ever since I stepped foot on campus, it has felt like home. Everyone you meet, whether it be staff, fellow students or guests, you always get a warm welcome. And AU has something for everyone. You will surely be able to get the degree you desire.”

Augusta University’s Fall 2021 Commencement will be at 2 p.m. Friday, Dec. 10 at the James Brown Arena. Watch the ceremony via livestream.