Attorney Follows Her Passion Into Health Care Consulting In Baltimore
U.S. News and World Report ranks the University of Maryland, Francis King Carey Law School as the number one Health Care Law Program in the nation, in its recent 2014-2015 rankings. Health Care Law is a specialty of growing importance as hospitals, physicians, policymakers and patients all grapple with the increasing complexity and costs of our health care system.
Jennifer Searfoss started out at the University of Maryland, Baltimore where she received a B.A. in Health Science and Policy; and her law degree with a health care focus from the University of Maryland School of Law. When asked why she chose to focus on the policy side of health care rather than the medical side, she described starting out with the goal to become a physician. She found, however, that the pace and the sheer responsibility for someone else's life did not appeal to her.
What inspired you to start your current consulting firm: Searfoss Consulting Group LLC?
"When I reevaluated my career path and decided to pursue health care policy, one big decision was which graduate degree to pursue a master's of public health or a law degree. I chose the law degree because it was more versatile. I started my consulting group in 2011 when I realized I wanted to work for myself and have a more flexible lifestyle. I also wanted to leave my corporate job."
How does your educational background relate to your current role?
"Unlike many wandering, idealistic students, I realized that my education was the foundation for my future; thus I wanted the best bang for my buck. State school programs were the best option; and I am so glad that I made that choice. Also, because I did work in my field during my undergraduate and graduate education, my schooling became a reinforcement of what I learned on the job and has made all the difference for me and my career. Right now I am about a decade ahead of where I thought I would be!"
How has your education helped to further your career and contribute to your success?
"My education did two specific things which assist me now: (1) networking – the people I went to school with are still in my network; and I contact them on a regular basis regarding policy issues and (2) how to write: I learned I was a poor writer when I entered law school; I corrected this, and it has helped me to this day."
What is some advice you can offer others looking to go into your field?
"Find what you are passionate about. Once you start down your path, don't expect everything to magically work out. In today's environment, the glam and cash are gone. Look for affordable programs with solid educational offerings, networking opportunities, vibrant alumni networks, apprenticeships, and on the job experiences to help you reach your goals."
Susan Brown originally spent many years in banking/finance before confronting her addictions. She has now been in recovery for 20 years. Her current interests, in which she has several certifications, are metaphysics and the healing arts. She has written for Examiner.com since 2009 and also writes for Om Times.
