Master of Digital Health Graduate Spotlight: Samantha Tudor
3 Min Read
La Trobe University’s online Master of Digital Health course is helping prepare students to thrive in this growing sector of healthcare with the specialised skills needed to address digital health challenges. Samantha Tudor, one of the earliest graduates of the Master of Digital Health course, is already putting her learning into practice in her new role as a Market Development Specialist in the healthcare technology sector. We caught up with Samantha to ask her some pertinent questions about what initially drew her to digital health, her experience in the course and what she hopes the future holds for her.
Why did you choose to take the Digital Health course?
After spending six months in the hospital with my newborn between the Maternity ward and the Neonatal Intensive Care Unit (NICU), and numerous follow ups in the years after, I observed the challenges of healthcare firsthand.
With the technology available today, I wondered “why couldn’t we predict how long my son would need to stay in the NICU?”; with the amazing hospital staff doing their best day in and day out, how can we reduce the workload to they can focus on what’s really important? That experience inspired me to think “What can I do to have an impact in this space?”
I was moved to transition from corporate IT into a meaningful career in healthcare.
I explored my options, looking into nursing and midwifery courses, but then the universe—or more accurately, a strategically targeted social media campaign—led me to La Trobe’s Master of Digital Health course. It was like finding a missing puzzle piece, blending my technical skills with my passion for healthcare.
What were your favourite subjects in the course?
I enjoyed them all so it was hard to limit to just three for my favourites:
Digital Health Design and Implementation (DIG5002) and
Strategic Digital Transformation of Health (DIG5001)
I often refer to the learnings from these subjects and apply them in my role in Market Development. Using design thinking approach to solve problems and then being able to manage strategic transformations are skills in high demand for any industry, but especially Digital Health.
Deep Learning (CSE5DL)
This was a challenging subject that allowed me to apply deep learning algorithms practically to solve real-world problems. The understanding of AI that I gained through this subject helped in my research thesis.
What did you find most challenging in the course?
I would say the most challenging part of the course is managing time. There is so much to learn, with amazing resources and networking opportunities. Being able to make the most of everything that is on offer while balancing life commitments can be difficult, but I’m grateful the course opened up opportunities within the industry.
Please share a bit about yourself – what do you like to do in your free time?
I have a young family, so in my free time I love spending time together at the beach, playing lego, puzzles and games. I enjoy learning, and so I am constantly researching new topics of interest and developing my skills.
Where would you like to be in 5 years’ time?
In five years time I hope to be meeting my career goals of mastering my current role and thinking of what comes next and who I am called to become. I would like to continue learning perhaps with further studies when the family is a little older. I’d like to be growing my network and maintaining the friendships I’ve made along the way.
Learn more about La Trobe’s online Master of Digital Health course or get in touch with our team of Enrolment Advisors via (+61 3) 9917 3009 or onlinecourses@latrobe.edu.au.