MICHELLE SALAS ELEVATES LEADERSHIP WITH UTEP EMBA
Michelle Salas graduated from the Executive MBA in November 2022. She started the EMBA at the height of the COVID-19 pandemic, fall 2020. She is a trained Registered Dietician (RD) with a non-traditional background and over 20 years of experience.
Tell us a little bit about yourself and your professional work experience before joining the UTEP EMBA program.
Prior to joining the EMBA program, I worked in healthcare IT as a Clinical Systems Analyst and Project Manager.
With a leap of faith, I transitioned into this position where I learned the multi-faceted domains of electronic medical records and how an organization, in particular a hospital, functions and runs on technology.
Before transitioning into healthcare IT, I worked in several Profit and Non-Profit Hospitals as a Clinical Registered Dietitian and Clinical Nutrition Manager. My passion as an RD was not only to lead a team successfully but also to work with the pediatric population and newborn premature infants.
I was fascinated working in the Neonatal Intensive Care Unit (NICU) and thrived on the importance nutrition plays in the growth and development of this patient population.
What drove you to seek out a Master’s in Business Administration?
Obtaining and earning an MBA was a life goal I set for myself years ago. Timing was never calculated correctly until the summer of 2020. The interest came from having a desire to pursue entrepreneurship as well as gain a strong insight into understanding the business world and some of its aspects. Additionally, I felt an MBA would enhance my knowledge and skill set in leadership and management regardless of my professional role.
How has the program helped you in your profession?
What I cherish the most are the people I have met and the connections I have made. However, I acquired a valuable set of skills that enhanced my ability to approach and address complex challenges, improve my leadership methodology, and stand out where and when I am needed too.
Did you get a promotion or have a career change after completing your EMBA?
Yes, to both. My career shifted slightly as I gained the confidence to leave my corporate job/role. I began my venture as an entrepreneur which is still a work in progress as the ebb and flow of this experience has been non-linear to include unexpected pauses. Alongside my venture, I took on a role as a consultant. In turn, this role became a full-time position as an Applications Project Manager for a Nutrition-focused startup healthcare tech company where I currently remain employed.
What would you tell people considering the Executive MBA program?
What is stopping you? Do it- Enroll! Despite the rigorousness of the program and possible sacrifices - have fun, enjoy the process, and allow yourself to get uncomfortable. The personal and professional growth and experience are well worth it!
