Technology Helps Dallas Doctor Expand His Career Options
With two physician parents, Aasim Saeed followed the family footsteps when he graduated from Duke University School of Medicine. Saeed had already earned a bachelor's in political science from Rice University and a master's degree in public administration (M.P.A.) from Harvard University.
"My master's degree taught me to think critically, analyze large data sets and use both to solve real world problems," said Saeed who is the co-founder and chief operating officer at LiveWire, a tech company that helps people find and connect with financial professionals. "After medical school, when I worked at McKinsey & Company, I traveled for months on end. It was rewarding because I was able to influence healthcare in other countries, but it wasn't easy being away from home for so long. A discussion with a former tax preparer about video conferencing used in healthcare lead to an idea about how a similar platform could be used by busy people to connect more easily with financial experts."
Why did you pursue a master's degree?
"As a then-aspiring physician, I planned to supplement my medical training with more specialized education about health systems, government, business and their intersections. I chose to pursue an M.P.A. because I was especially interested in how policy shaped our current health system."
What would you tell someone who is considering returning to school to earn a master's degree?
"In a world of specialization, a bachelor's degree is no longer sufficient to be considered an expert in your field. The line starts with a master's degree, which teaches you the critical thinking, data analysis and problem solving skills you'll need to have a real impact in any industry."
What was the biggest reward for earning the master's degree?
"The biggest reward with my MPA was the quality of the people around me. All the incredible people I went to school with are now shaping worlds of law, government, military, entrepreneurship and education both in the US and abroad."
Robin D. Everson is a native Chicagoan who resides in Dallas, Texas. Her appreciation for art, food, wine, people and places has helped her become a well-respected journalist. A life-long lover of education, Robin seeks to learn and enlighten others about culture. You can find her work at Examiner.com