Contents
Meet JSOM Student Nicholas Williamson
Nicholas Williamson is currently pursuing a Double MS/MBA degree in Healthcare Leadership and Management at the Naveen Jindal School of Management. He is expected to graduate in Fall 2026.
Williamson is actively involved with the Elite Healthcare Leaders Program (EHLP) where he serves as president. Through the club, he connects with alumni and industry leaders for them to speak to students and engage in program activities. He earned his Lean Six Sigma Yellow Belt certification through the program and is now working toward a Healthcare IT certificate.
Coming to UT Dallas
While enrolled at The University of Texas at Austin, Williamson took summer classes at The University of Texas at Dallas. He grew to enjoy the campus and the prestige of UT Dallas and felt a strong sense of belonging.
“I knew the professors I had taken in the past were well-equipped and well-suited to provide me with the industry knowledge and experience I would need,” he said. “And so, I felt that UT Dallas was the right choice.”
Life on Campus at JSOM
Williamson most enjoys the diversity in the classrooms, where students come from different backgrounds with unique perspectives, leading to more fruitful discussions. As EHLP president, he is working to revamp the organization.
“I volunteered to take on the role as president so that we could restructure the club and make it more beneficial to all the students in our program,” he said.
EHLP is the first student organization he has been a part of, so much of his time is focused on schoolwork and improving the program. Last spring, Williamson participated in the graduate banquet for the Healthcare Leadership and Management Programs and made valuable connections at the their annual spring career fair.
“I find myself wanting to take classes in person more than online just because I enjoy it,” he said. “Being in the classroom setting with my peers and professors is nice, and I think that makes the program a bit unique for me and others.”
Overcoming Obstacles and Finding Success
Williamson’s biggest challenge has been returning to school after taking a break from working full-time.
“Getting back into the rhythm of being in school was tough,” he said. “I had been away for a number of years.”
He continues to improve his time-management skills through coursework and his leadership role in EHLP. He also seeks guidance from faculty members.
“Dr. Mehmet Ayvaci and Professor Timothy Stephens have been fantastic resources,” he said. “They both have a vast amount of industry knowledge, are well-respected in their fields, and are well-equipped to help us master’s students work toward successful careers.”
Mentorship Along the Way
Williamson is grateful for the support from the Master of Healthcare Leadership and Management Program at the Jindal School. He credits Program Manager Amye Broyles and Program Director and Clinical Professor Dr. Keith Thurgood for their guidance.
“Amye has been super helpful in planning and helping us stay connected with the right people and in all email communication,” he said.
He also recognizes Thurgood as a source of inspiration.
“He’s been with the program for a very long time,” Williamson said. “He’s the cornerstone of the program itself, and without his assistance and connections, we wouldn’t be able to function. Amye and Dr. Thurgood have continued their support and belief in not just the EHLP club, but the master’s program as a whole, doing whatever they can to help us secure jobs and graduate with our certificates and degrees.”
Advice for Fellow Students
Williamson advises students not to compare their educational journey to those of others.
“I’ll say two things: one, continue to be true to yourself and who you are, as corny as that sounds,” he said. “And don’t put yourself on other people’s timelines, per se.”
He emphasizes the importance of balancing work, personal life and school, encouraging students not to feel pressured to rush through their degrees.
“Don’t feel like you must have an internship to be successful,” he said. “Don’t feel like you must rush to finish your degree. Take things at the pace that works for you. Don’t feel like you must do something just because people around you are doing it. I’ve had people at my current internship tell me the worst thing you can do is take a job and dread it every day. So, whether it’s management or beyond, make sure you enjoy the industry and the goals you’re pursuing.”
Looking to the Future
Williamson is currently an intern at Advanced Reconstructive Surgery Alliance in Dallas and has just completed his first year.
“I’ve been working on projects for their Revenue Cycle Management, Recruitment, Specialties, and Mergers and Acquisitions departments,” he said. “Post-graduation, I’d like to stay in DFW and continue working to improve healthcare quality, efficiency, and accessibility in the area.”
He looks forward to the next semester, contributing to EHLP by hosting speakers, planning hospital tours and exploring academic opportunities through organizations like the American College of Healthcare Executives.
