Alumni Update: Where are they now?
Name: Monica Marchetta
Degree(s) Received: MSG/MPA
Year of Graduation: 2004
Job title: Management Intern
Company: UnitedHealth Group
Location (city and state): Fort Washington, PA
Please briefly describe your position and your company:
I work for Ovations, a segment of UnitedHealth Group, which is specifically focused on providing health products and insurance to the senior market. We are the largest business in the United States solely dedicated to the health and well-being needs of Americans age 50 and older. My division, Insurance Solutions, partners with AARP to provide health insurance products (ranging from Medicare Supplement to Primary Insurance) to adults over the age of 50.
I am currently in a management training program called LEAD (Leadership, Education, Achievement, and Development). The 2-3 year program consists of rotations throughout several different departments in the company. Thus far, I have completed rotations in Compliance, Product Development, and Program Management. The goal of the program is to educate young professionals on several aspects of the business to gain an understanding of health insurance as a whole.
Why did you choose to study gerontology at the USC Davis School?
I took as many Adult Development and Aging classes as possible as an undergraduate. There was no question that I was headed straight to grad school. I fell in love with USC’s reputation, dual degree programs, and focus on Gerontology. Plus, being from Boston the weather was a plus!
How did you learn about your current position? Was it through an internship, a previous job, or a connection through USC?
Believe it or not, I found my current position on Monster.com and it was exactly what I was looking for! I did find my first position out of grad school with the help from my USC advisor and professors.
Please briefly describe how the USC Davis School’s curriculum helped prepare you for your current position.
I truly understanding the needs of older adults and the policies that affect their healthcare decision making. Although I don’t work directly with the older population, I gain satisfaction knowing that my work helps support their health care needs. I also love supporting AARP as our business partner.
What advice would you offer to a prospective student interested in studying gerontology at USC?
Take advantage of the dual degree programs and be sure to pick an internship that suits your needs. My gero internship brought me to Washington, DC and became a permanent position after I graduated. Also, keep in touch with your professors. The USC faculty is an amazing resource and eager to help students and professionals exceed in the field. On a side note, I wish I had gone to more football games. Go Trojans!
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