The transition from graduate student to health care leader is a defining moment and for Kishan Patel and Amber Wilkison, it’s one they began preparing for well before receiving their degrees from USF’s (COPH) in May 2025.
Each found their passion for public health early—Patel through a and Wilkison through a while earning their —before graduating with their MHA, making them proud double Bulls with deep ties to the COPH community.
Now just weeks into their administrative fellowships—Patel at Jefferson Health in Philadelphia and Wilkison at Tampa General Hospital (TGH) in Fla.—both are reflecting on what drew them to public health, how their time at ßŮßÇÂţ» shaped their leadership approach and what they’re learning on the ground.
“What draws me most to the field of public health is its focus on addressing social determinants of health and ensuring health systems are equipped to connect individuals with the resources and education needed to make informed decisions about their well-being,” Patel said.
Wilkison noted that her interest in public health began when she chose it as a minor during her undergraduate studies.
“I realized how foundational public health is to the entire health care system and it allowed me to think beyond the bedside,” Wilkison said. “To truly improve health outcomes, health care must go beyond the exam room and engage with the broader social conditions that shape people’s lives.”
Wilkison added that this perspective is especially important when working with vulnerable communities.
“Populations at risk often experience higher disease rates and lower life expectancy,” Wilkison said. “Health care systems must recognize and address these challenges to provide care.”
Amber Wilkison has an administrative fellowship at Tampa General Hospital which is located near the Hillsborough River. (Photo courtesy of Wilkison)
Growing as leaders at the COPH
Both alumni credit the MHA program’s emphasis on professional development and real-world learning as key to their success today.
“The faculty were unwavering in their commitment to student success,” Patel said. “The program prepares students exceptionally well for early career roles and long-term leadership through robust academic offerings and hands-on opportunities.”
Wilkison pointed to several standout moments from her time at the COPH.
“There was no shortage of opportunities to get involved in the program and within our community,” Wilkison said. “One of the most rewarding experiences was being selected to represent USF at the University of Alabama at Birmingham’s annual Health Administration Case Competition.”
She also participated in an interprofessional case study with second-year medical students from the .
“We strategized ways to improve health care quality through value-based contracting,” Wilkison said. “This gave me firsthand exposure to dyad leadership, where two leaders share responsibility for the same unit.”
For Patel, involvement in the and his role as a graduate assistant helped him gain leadership experience while supporting his peers.
“I supported recruitment efforts, increased program visibility and created opportunities for fellow students to engage in professional development and secure internships,” Patel said.
Both participated in national events that tested their skills under pressure.
“Participating in state and national case competitions and attending the ACHE Congress helped me hone my public speaking, presentation and networking skills,” Patel said.
Amber Wilkison volunteered at the ACHE Western Florida Chapter Finance Symposium during her time as a student. (Photo courtesy of Wilkison)
On the ground in fellowship
Now just a few weeks into their fellowships, both alumni are embracing the pace and complexity of their new environments.
Patel is currently completing his fellowship and said he was drawn to the organization’s leadership legacy.
“Jefferson Health offers the opportunity to learn from experienced leaders while contributing to a mission-driven organization focused on improving lives,” Patel said.
His first weeks have included numerous meet-and-greets, department overviews and conversations with executives.
“My time at the COPH, both in the classroom and through extracurricular activities, prepared me to succeed in this fast-paced environment,” Patel said.
Meanwhile, Wilkison began her fellowship with TGH, where she recently completed rotations with the information technology and innovation departments. Her fellowship structure begins with two and a half months of rotations before transitioning into projects in a focus area.
“TGH stands out as a leading academic medical center that is deeply committed to patient-centered care and innovation,” Wilkison said. “Its partnership with USF Health provides unique opportunities for continuous learning, research and collaboration across disciplines.”
She also emphasized the hospital’s culture of collaboration.
“Beyond clinical excellence, TGH has a strong reputation for its collaborative culture and emphasis on professional growth,” Wilkison said.
As new fellows, both Patel and Wilkison are learning that leadership all about listening, adaptability and strategic thinking.
“I’ve come to understand that leadership isn’t about having the right answers,” Wilkison said. “It’s about asking the right questions, listening to perspectives across all levels and staying open to feedback.”
Advice for future fellows
Both alumni agree: fellowships are meant to be a launching pad—not a finish line.
“The application process is competitive, but you don’t need to have everything figured out,” Wilkison said. “Fellowships are designed to help you learn and grow. Stay confident, curious and trust what you bring to the table.”
Patel emphasized the value of preparation and practice.
“Practicing interviews with alumni, classmates and faculty is key,” Patel said.
Looking ahead, both plan to continue contributing to their organizations and communities beyond the duration of their fellowships.
“I hope to continue with Jefferson Health after completing my fellowship and grow as a health care leader dedicated to advancing patient care through operational excellence,” Patel said.
Amber Wilkison
Fast Five
What did you dream of becoming when you were young?
Teacher
Where would we find you on the weekend?
At the beach
What is the last book you read?
“The Obstacle” is the Way” by Ryan Holiday
What superpower would you like to have?
Teleportation
What’s your all-time favorite movie?
“The Hunger Games” (2012)
Kishan PAtel:
Fast Five
What did you dream of becoming when you were young?
Anesthesiologist
Where would we find you on the weekend?
Running along the Schuylkill River Trail
What is the last book you read?
“What Got You Here Won’t Get You There” by Marshall Goldsmith
What superpower would you like to have?
The ability to control time
What’s your all-time favorite movie?
“M´Ç˛Ô±đ˛â˛ú˛ą±ô±ô”