From Passion to Purpose in Healthcare and Advocacy

For Amber Hills, pursuing her degree at Herzing University wasn’t just about advancing her career—it was about finding her purpose. With a passion for healthcare and a drive to make a difference, Amber’s journey was shaped by resilience, hard work and the unwavering support of her family. Her time at Herzing wasn’t just an education; it became the foundation for overcoming obstacles and discovering her true potential.

Amber’s path back to school began with a moment of realization. For years, she had worked in the health information field, gaining hands-on experience and mastering various roles. But when a director position opened up in her department, she found herself ineligible—not because of a lack of knowledge or capability, but because she didn’t have a degree.

“It was disappointing,” Amber recalled. “I knew the work, the process, and everything that went into the role, but I didn’t qualify because I didn’t have the required degree or certification. That’s when I decided I wasn’t going to let that happen again.”

Determined to take control of her future, Amber decided to pursue her degree to ensure she would be qualified for the roles she knew she was capable of excelling in.

Herzing University became Amber’s first choice after attending her cousin’s graduation ceremony. Watching her cousin celebrate her achievements inspired Amber to take the leap. “I was so inspired by her story and the supportive environment I saw at Herzing,” Amber said. “The marketing table at the ceremony also caught my attention, providing me with information about the programs and the university’s focus on career success. It felt like the perfect fit.”

Amber found exactly what she needed at Herzing: a program tailored to her busy life and instructors who were committed to her success. “I’ve never been left to just figure things out on my own,” Amber explained. “Whenever I had questions or needed help, my professors were always there to guide me. That level of support gave me confidence in my education and my ability to succeed in the field.”

Balancing work, family, and school was no small feat, but Amber credits Herzing’s understanding instructors and flexible online programs for making it possible. “Herzing’s instructors understand that life happens. If you communicate, they’re willing to work with you to help you succeed,” she said.

Now a graduate, Amber is exploring two potential career paths. She’s considering advancing her career within the healthcare industry, leveraging her degree and experience to take on leadership roles in health information management. But she’s also passionate about serving her community in an advocacy role, helping individuals understand their healthcare rights and navigate complex systems.

“There are so many people who don’t know what resources are available to them or how to access them,” Amber said. “I want to bridge that gap and make a difference for those who need help the most.”

Amber’s journey is a testament to the power of perseverance and self-belief. Her advice to others considering going back to school is simple yet profound: “There’s never going to be a perfect time to

go back to school. Life doesn’t pause—responsibilities, relationships, and challenges will always be there. But you deserve to invest in yourself and your goals. Don’t let fear or doubt hold you back. You’re capable of more than you realize.”

Whether she continues her work in healthcare or steps into advocacy, Amber is determined to use her experiences to inspire and support others. Her journey shows that with determination, resilience and the right support, it’s possible to overcome obstacles and achieve both personal and professional success.