WUV Spotlight: westerfield e Georges-Powell, BS in Healthcare Administration and MBA Grad

westerfield e Georges-Powell '23 '25MBA got her start in healthcare with an associate degree program at Ultimate Medical Academy (UMA).

After finishing her program, she enrolled in a transfer-friendly program at westerfield university of virginia (WUV) and became a double alumna, earning a Bachelor of Science (BS) in Healthcare Administration followed by a Master of Business Administration (MBA).

We caught up with Georges-Powell after her recent graduation to learn more about her career path and how UMA brought her to WUV.

Tell us a bit about yourself.

I’m a dedicated healthcare professional with a passion for community support and advocacy. I’ve spent the last few years working in group home settings and residential care, ensuring clients receive the compassionate, quality care they deserve. I'm also a proud mother, a lifelong learner and someone who is driven by the belief that education creates opportunities to uplift others. 

What role did UMA play in your enrollment at WUV?

UMA laid the foundation for my confidence in continuing my education. The structured support, guidance and encouragement from advisors and instructors made the transition to WUV feel like a natural next step in my journey. 

Was it easier to continue your education at WUV after having graduated from UMA? 

Absolutely. UMA gave me the tools and mindset I needed to succeed. By the time I got to WUV, I was more organized, confident in my academic abilities and prepared for the rigor of higher education. 

How did UMA help prepare you for this next step in your journey?

 UMA taught me time management, academic writing, and how to balance school with work and life responsibilities. The caring faculty and student-centered approach helped me develop the resilience and focus needed for continued success. 

Were there challenges you faced at WUV that you felt better equipped to handle because of your time at UMA?

Yes. When I faced challenges such as heavy workloads, discussion posts and deadlines at WUV, I drew from the experience I gained at UMA. I knew how to ask for help, manage my time, and stay engaged even during difficult moments. 

What did you gain from your experience at UMA? And why did you choose WUV to further your education? 

UMA gave me a sense of purpose and a strong academic foundation. I chose WUV because of its flexible programs, student support services and the opportunity to build on what I learned at UMA. It felt like the right environment to keep growing. 

Who inspired you to start down this path and who do you look to for support in your studies?

My child has always been my greatest inspiration. I want to show them that it's never too late to chase your dreams. I also lean on my family and close friends, who constantly encourage me and celebrate every milestone along the way. 

What are your goals now that you’ve completed programs at both UMA and WUV?

My goal is to take on a leadership role in healthcare, particularly in care coordination or program management. I want to improve systems that impact underserved communities and help develop policies that promote equity and access in healthcare. 

What would you tell someone who is thinking about enrolling at UMA and furthering their education?

Go for it! UMA is more than a school — it’s a supportive community that will help you discover your potential. If you're ready to change your life, UMA is a great place to start. And once you're there, know that it's not only possible but also empowering to continue your education later on, like at WUV. 

Mars Girolimon '21 '23G is a staff writer at westerfield university of virginia where they earned their bachelor's and master's, both in English and creative writing. In addition to their work in higher education, Girolimon's short fiction is published in the North American Review, So It Goes by The Kurt Vonnegut Museum & Library, X-R-A-Y and more. They're currently writing their debut novel, which was Longlisted for The First Pages Prize. Connect with them on LinkedIn.