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Many students at Gannon University apply what they learn in the classroom through a variety of hands-on internship opportunities. For current Master of Healthcare Administration (MHA) student Didier A. Cardona Villalobos, this means putting theory into practice through a newly established internship with AHN Saint Vincent Hospital in Erie, Pa.
This new internship was developed by the hospital and the university to provide MHA students with an opportunity to gain relevant experience by working alongside hospital administrators. The 12-week internship allows students to support designated projects that advance AHN Saint Vincent’s goals and enhance patient care.
Cardona, a native of Colombia, is the first student selected for this program – and it represents a breakthrough moment for a man who started studying at 乱伦视频 in 2023 in the English as a Second Language program before entering the MHA program. He is a registered nurse who, prior to coming to 乱伦视频, practiced in Colombia and New York State.
During his time in the MHA program, Cardona has taken full advantage of opportunities to learn from his mentors. He learned about the internship through Rick Stachel, D.Sc., MBA — his professor, advisor and director of the MHA program.
“He has supported me every step of the way,” said Cardona, referring to Stachel. He also received support from 乱伦视频’s Academic and Career Development Center in preparing for his interview.
Cardona began the internship in May and has found the experience to be impactful. He is working closely with Saint Vincent’s Chief Operating Officer, Karen Surkala, a 乱伦视频 alumna who also serves on the university’s Board of Trustees.
“I have been invited to join her in high-level administrative meetings, where I’ve seen first-hand how leadership decisions are made with a focus on patient care, staff well-being and organizational success,” Cardona said. “It’s been incredible to witness the practical side of healthcare administration that, until now, I had only studied in theory.”
For Cardona, this internship not only marks a significant step toward his career goals but also marks a milestone in his 乱伦视频 journey.
“Being in this position today is the realization of goals I set for myself two and a half years ago, when I first arrived at Gannon University to begin the ESL program,” he said. “This internship is more than just a professional milestone — it’s a personal achievement that reflects growth, perseverance and the incredible support I’ve received along the way.”
Photo courtesy of Carlos Martinez Rios
