In 2014, Hilda Rivera started her academic journey with Peirce College in hopes of gaining the degree she needed for the career she deserved. By June of 2016, Hilda proudly accomplished this goal when she earned her bachelor’s degree in Healthcare Administration.
But her story doesn’t end there – Hilda decided to continue on with her education by looking into earning her master’s degree. Due to her previous experience with Peirce College, the opportunity to earn graduate level credits during her undergraduate experience and because the College was officially launching a master’s program in her field of study, Hilda knew where her next journey would take place. So, without any further hesitation, Hilda was the first student to enroll in Peirce’s new Master of Science in Healthcare Administration (MSHCA) program!
Fast-forward to June 2018, after balancing work, school and life once again, Hilda was ready and eager to cross the commencement stage for a second time, but this one was special because Hilda would cross as the first ever graduate of the Master of Science in Healthcare Administration program.
After earning two degrees at Peirce College, Hilda reflected back on how she got started with this incredible journey. Hilda said, “I decided to return to school only after my son completed his degree. Being a single parent was difficult and I could not afford to complete my degree because I had to care for him, but education has always been a priority for me. Knowing that I still have over twenty-five years until retirement and working for an organization where there are many opportunities for advancement, I was inspired to go back to school.”
“I completed both my bachelor’s and master’s degrees debt-free.”
Once inspired and ready to head back to school, Peirce College was a top choice for Hilda not only because of their corporate partnership with her employer, but she was also impressed with Peirce’s unwavering commitment to working adult learners. Adult learners have the complexity of juggling work and family obligations with the added element of returning to school. “My experience was different from a traditional-age student. I focused more in class, managed my time wisely and was able to integrate what I learned in class with my experience at work,” Hilda remarked.
After connecting with Peirce College and learning of the corporate partner tuition discount and the dedication to working adults, Hilda found another piece of Peirce she just could not resist. Peirce’s non-clinical healthcare degrees drew Hilda in as they were a perfect fit with Hilda’s work background. “I chose this degree because healthcare is my passion. My entire career has been in healthcare and, at this point, I would love to retire from my current employer,” explained Hilda, “With a master’s degree, I know that I will have the ability to advance within this field.”
Now, a two-time Peirce graduate, Hilda looks back on her time with Peirce, saying, “Returning to Peirce for my education was one of the best decisions I have ever made. Peirce professors and staff were with me all the way.”
In addition to the internal support received, Hilda also is grateful for her financial relief following graduation, “I completed both my bachelor’s and master’s degrees debt-free. At Peirce, I was able to take advantage of the corporate partner discount provided to my employer and was given the opportunity to go on a payment plan for the remainder of my balance per session.”
Since returning to school at Peirce, Hilda has gone from a part-time position to a full-time position and a promotion. She is currently a Senior Concierge in a healthcare organization. Hilda said, “I am in a good place and love my job. My master’s degree has provided me confidence to have the ability to rise when an opportunity comes along.”
We are so very proud of Hilda’s accomplishments and congratulate her on the completion of the MSHCA program.