As an HR business partner at Centra and an adjunct professor at Central Virginia Community College (CVCC), Susan Burnette is dedicated to guiding students in their healthcare education journey. With her extensive experience in the field, she understands the importance of accessible education and the impact it can have on one’s career.
“I think a lot of times when students come into healthcare, they don’t really know what to expect,” said Burnette. “Maybe their friend was in healthcare or a parent or a relative and so my favorite part about teaching is being able to give them an introduction to healthcare and show them what it’s really about and the endless opportunities that go with healthcare.”
Exploring Endless Opportunities in Healthcare
For students considering a career in healthcare, understanding the different available paths is the first step in finding their answer and succeeding in a fulfilling career. The healthcare industry offers a vast array of career paths, catering to diverse interests, skills and passions. From direct patient care to behind-the-scenes support roles, healthcare careers span a broad spectrum of specialties and disciplines.
“I think it’s so important to choose a career in healthcare because like I said, there’s endless opportunities,” said Burnette. “I’m a nurse by background. I’ve worked as a floor nurse, I continue to work as a floor nurse, but I’ve also been a teacher and now I get to have a role in HR that branches out into the community through workforce development.”
Community Colleges Connect Education and Industry
Burnette’s passion for healthcare and education is evident in her work at Central Virginia Community College (CVCC). She believes that community colleges play a vital role in connecting education and industry, providing students with the skills and knowledge they need to succeed and meeting individuals where they are in their lives in order to attain their goals.
“In our HR and workforce development work, our community colleges are so important because they allow the employees or our caregivers who wouldn’t necessarily be able to attain a four-year degree at that point, the ability to go back and further their career and either get a certificate or a degree,” said Burnette.
Susan Burnette’s journey in healthcare and education is a shining example of the possibilities that exist in the healthcare industry. Through her work at Centra and CVCC, she is inspiring the next generation of healthcare professionals to explore their passions and pursue their dreams.