My experience with the administrative fellowship at the North Shore-LIJ Health System has far surpassed my expectations of a fellowship program. The support of the program from the executive leadership team was evident even prior to the start of the program and continued throughout the year. Members of the executive team value the program and the individuals in it. They have designated occasions to meet with the group and share accounts of their career paths and time in the health system.

During the fellowship, I was given the opportunity to engage in projects with significant impact to the organization. This allowed me to apply what I learned in graduate school while continuing to learn from real-time situations. The rotational set-up of the program encouraged me to explore different areas of healthcare within the system while working closely with a number of senior leaders in the organization. The exposure to senior-level leadership on a regular basis provided the mentoring and guidance necessary in learning the intricacies of a large health system. The time these leaders spent with me was invaluable in terms of observing their leadership styles and expanding my knowledge and understanding through answering questions as well as challenging my knowledge base.

Being one of six fellows in the health system allowed for collaboration among the group and enhanced my experience overall. All of the fellows had different encounters and projects during the year. The ability to share with one another and to trade ideas and thoughts allowed for second hand learning and access to a vast array of projects that would not have been feasible for one person to be involved in during one year's time.

I am greatly appreciative for the opportunities and education the fellowship at North Shore-LIJ has afforded me and I know I am better prepared for my career in healthcare administration because of this position.