Eleanor (Ellie) Becker has a strong sense of direction when it comes to her career in healthcare management—one that’s both intentional and evolving. Like many students majoring in Healthcare Management (HM), a field with countless career pathways, this senior’s interests have sharpened over time. In fact, they took a new turn this summer during her internship with VitaTek, an innovative medical device development incubator, accelerator, and manufacturing company that specializes in bringing ideas to market.
The Minnesota-based startup’s range of services is extensive: ideation conceptualization, research and development, prototyping, FDA compliance and regulatory services, usability testing and validation, 510k submissions, tool & die molds, manufacturing, hydrophilic coating, sterilization, warehousing, distribution, marketing and sales. It’s a scope of work that fits well with Ellie’s passion for transforming the healthcare industry to ensure services are accessible, efficient, and compassionate, as well as with her proven strengths in leadership, communication, and teamwork.
"I was surprised with just how much I would learn in such a short amount of time,” she shares about her role as VitaTek’s social media and marketing intern. “I had the opportunity to learn about things I never thought I would as an intern. I also didn’t expect to collaborate so closely with multiple departments from day one. It showed me how diverse perspectives contribute to innovation and deliver better outcomes."
The internship also fueled her burgeoning interest in marketing. In an episode of the company’s VitaTalk podcast with Marketing Manager Elias Rehmann, Ellie discusses some of insights she gained, including “the importance of social media tools like Sendible in optimizing workflow … the creation of engaging content that reflects the company's culture, and the valuable learning opportunities available to interns in the healthcare management field.”
Following her graduation, Ellie hopes to continue to work in healthcare management, with her eye firmly focused on social media and marketing. “I love that there is something new every day, and I would love to continue to take every opportunity to learn more and grow my career,” she says. “I am eager to contribute to a healthier future for all."
Ellie's Advice for Healthcare Management Interns
“Keep an open mind throughout the entire internship process. Applying and interviewing can be stressful, but staying flexible allows you to explore a range of opportunities and discover what truly fits you. I initially thought I wanted to pursue sales, but once I started in marketing, I realized that’s where I thrived. The journey might feel overwhelming at times, but trust the process and absorb as much as you can along the way!”
Anastasia Faunce is a writer and content strategist with the College of Continuing and Professional Studies, where she covers pre-college, ESL, long-term care, and applied undergraduate degree programs, as well as alumni engagement and development initiatives. A former director of several CCAPS programs, Anastasia previously served as the director of public relations for the Minneapolis College of Art and Design and continues to collaborate regularly with artists and designers. Connect with her via LinkedIn.
