In our recent interview, Stacy White reminded us about what it’s like to juggle a career, family, and schoolwork. Find out how Stacy is already applying what she’s learned while taking courses through Penn State World Campus
What is your degree program through Penn State World Campus and when will you graduate?
I’m working toward a Bachelor of Science degree in Psychology, and I will graduate in 2021
What is your hometown?
Camp Hill, Pennsylvania
What/where is your current career and workplace?
I’m a senior patient accounts biller with UPMC Pinnacle.
What does a typical workday look like for you?
A typical workday for me starts after dropping off three of my children for school. Then I drive to an office building in downtown Harrisburg, Pennsylvania. My position at UPMC Pinnacle is serving as the leader and primary contact for hospital billing staff. I’m required to know all functions of the billing team, assist staff with questions or when problems arise, and fill in any role, if needed. As a lead member of the billing staff, I audit the completeness and accuracy of all functions, monitor workflows, and identify areas that we need to work on as a priority. Throughout my day, I also receive a lot of emails and attend many meetings.
How did you become interested in the field you currently work in?
My personal motto, “Struggles motivate me,” is a true testament to how I originally became interested in the health care field. When I was in high school, I failed a health class because I just could not focus on the material. When I had to take the class a second time and actually engage with the material, I fell in love with the topic.
How has Penn State World Campus impacted your career?
Penn State World Campus has helped me advance my career, even while completing my degree, because my leaders and peers see me working to improve myself. They see how I’m involved with Penn State World Campus in many aspects. I attend any type of leadership opportunities I can find, I’ve joined several clubs, and I can attest to the spirit of Penn State, hoping others will reach for their goals as well. Many are inspired by my commitment to work full-time, run a large household/family, and still manage to complete my course work. Monday mornings are typically a slow start for me, but after hitting the coffeepot hard, I spunk up for the new week ahead.
What are some of the challenges you’ve faced as a Penn State World Campus student? How have you overcome these challenges?
The biggest challenges are time management and making “me” time to care for my own health/wellness. To overcome this, I keep a planned agenda with me everywhere I go. It is also important to stay focused when challenges arise and ask for help when you need it. There are many resources offered by the University and your peers to help you with your education. You have to take the initiative to raise your voice and ask for help.
How do you stay connected with Penn State?
The many opportunities to stay engaged and become involved with an online campus led me to Penn State. I started out as a member and director of communications for the Blue & White Society. I also coordinate the communications for the Penn State World Campus Psychology Club and was just elected to be president! Since just filling my calendar wasn’t enough, I also joined Active Minds, and I serve as a Lion Advocate, Lion Mentor, and Student Ambassador.
What is some advice that you would give to a current Penn State World Campus student?
Pace yourself. Don’t ever give up. Let your struggles motivate you!
