Carlee Piekarski, a Boise State University graduate who earned her Bachelor of Science in Health Studies in 2023, is now working as a performance improvement analyst at a local hospital.
Piekarski’s path, however, didn’t begin with health data.
“Initially, I aimed to become a dental hygienist,” Piekarski said. “During my bachelor’s studies, I discovered the wide range of opportunities in health care beyond the clinical side, which broadened my perspective and ultimately guided my career path.”
During her time as a health studies student, Piekarski’s experiences with internships, classes and projects solidified her interest in health data analytics and guided her toward a career in health data. By diving into data management, Carlee gained knowledge in epidemiology, which she said is integral to her hospital work.
Discussing the use of her degree in her current work, she said, “My Health Studies major provided insights into project management, health care quality and systems, while my health data minor enhanced my skills in medical records, Excel and creating data collection tools, which I frequently use in my job.”
In her current position, Carlee uses her health studies and data background to work on performance improvement projects. She finds joy in the practical applications of data, she says.
“One of the more important aspects is turning complex data into clear, actionable insights that improve patient care and hospital efficiency,” she said. “Almost like being a detective and storyteller in one! I love how presenting data can help tell a story!”
To students considering a career in health data and analytics, Carlee’s advice is to “showcase your passion and the work you have already done through projects and internship experience.”