Dear Editor,
I am writing this letter to say a BIG thank you!
I think that I am not unlike many other students here who have struggled to find a major that will be exciting, rewarding and lead to a salary that will enable their spouse to stay at home — with the kiddies.
In my quest to find just the right path of study I have talked to a myriad of people — to date I’m sure that it numbers well over 100 people. Anyway, a couple of weeks ago I found the most valuable resources that I have ever had before.
The first was an outstanding man in the Open Major Advisement Center in the Wilkinson Student Center. His name: Jim Burton. He listened to me as I tried to give a “Reader’s Digest” version of my life and my fickle metamorphosis of majors.
He did not interrupt, only listened. I had already taken some of the career aptitude/interests tests that they offer there, and I described the results to him as well. Anyway, at the end of our session he talked about what he felt were my strengths and some things that seemed to be genuine interests. He then printed off some major maps and gave me some names of people that I could contact to get a better idea of what I could expect after I graduate.
Before I move on to describe my visit with Dr. Parsons, I must say that Burton had been the single most positively influential person in helping me find a major course of study. I would highly recommend him all that seek top-quality professional advice in terms of their majors.
One of the options that I discussed with Burton was a course of study that would lead to an MHA (For those of you who, like me, didn’t know MHA is a master’s in health administration). Anyway, we don’t have an MHA program at BYU; however, it is very similar to a master’s of public administration, and the head of the MPA Department here has done A LOT of work in the health sector on a community, state and national levels. With this background, he seemed like a great person to talk to — but I was skeptical about whether he would have time for one person that was just “looking into an option.”
What I discovered was, indeed, a very busy man who still made time for me.
He offered me a chair in his office and proceeded to offer his insights and expertise. He described advantages and benefits of a health administration degree. Above all, he graciously gave of his time and talents so I could better understand an option.
Well, to be completely honest, I still haven’t nailed down a major; however, I am a lot closer, and I have a lot more confidence and information because of two people who have a real love for the students at BYU.
THANK YOU!
Ben Christensen
Fullerton, Calif.
