President
Sarah Keppen
Major: Health Information Administration
Minor: Computer Information Systems
Hometown: Sioux Falls, SD
Why she chose HIM as a major:
I originally pursued an A.S. degree in medical transcription/coding at the encouragement of my parents who both work in the healthcare field as physicians. They thought that this would be a good fit for me. I decided to broaden my career opportunities after hearing about HIM program at DSU. I originally planned on pursuing just the Health Information Technology degree than decided to continue on to the bachelors program and then decided to pursue a CIS minor. I figured I might as well get all of my education done at once :P
What areas of the HIM field interest her most:
I really like working with data and information. I think that
cancer registry is a very interesting area, but would love working with any kind
of disease research database. I
would also love to work as a medical staff liaison.
The HIM class she enjoyed most and why:
I enjoyed the legal aspects of HIM class. I like learning
about all of the legal rules that concern professionals in the field. I also
liked learning about cancer registries in Data Statistics class.
Advice for new students:
I encourage you to take advantage of the resources that are available to you as a student. There are so many opportunities to connect with people while in college. Get connected with upper-level students. They have been where you are, and will have great advice to give you. Get connects with profressionals in field. They might be willing to hire you when you graduate or even just be a mentor to you as a student and later on as a new HIM professional. I think that it's so important to get connected to as many as people as you can in your college. Fortunately as an HIM student you have a resource that will help you make those all important connections. The HIM Club can help you get in touch with other HIM students and HIM professionals that can help you in your college career and later on as an HIM professional. Take advantage of this as soon as you can, and you will soon be reaping benefits that will last you a lifetime!!
Hobbies: Traveling, going for walks, listening to music and shopping
Favorite T.V. Show: Grey's Anatomy
Favorite Music: I will listen to pretty much anything, but I really like folk rock music.
Favorite Movie: Oh gosh, I can't pick a favorite. I like comedies. Anything that makes me laugh.
Favorite Color: Fuchsia
Favorite Restaurant in Madison: Nicky's
Random facts about Sarah:
In August 2006 she donated 11 inches of hair to Locks of Love
She would like to travel the world someday
"Be the change that you want to see in the world" - Mahatma Ghandi