When Arnav Gandhi earns his degree from UNCG this week, he won’t just be one of the University’s graduates. He’ll be the first graduate of the Human Health Sciences bachelor’s degree.
Gandhi, 22, of Cary, transferred to UNCG from another North Carolina university where he was pursuing a degree in nursing. He changed his school and his major, though, after discovering his true passion.
As I progressed in my studies, I realized that while I was deeply passionate about health care, I did not see myself as a direct patient provider. I wanted to contribute to the field differently, in a way that would allow me to make a broader impact on the system as a whole.
Arnav Gandhi, First graduate of the Human Health Sciences bachelor’s degree
He transferred to UNCG in fall 2023 as a third-year student, initially only selecting the school but not a degree. Gandhi said he selected UNCG because there were more options for health field majors.
“I discovered the Human Health Sciences major, which completely changed my perspective. The coursework introduced me to health care’s professional and leadership aspects, which resonated with me far more than the clinical side,” he said. “My classes taught me about health care leadership, operational efficiency, and the critical role anyone plays in ensuring hospitals and clinics run effectively. This major has helped me develop problem-solving, decision-making, and organizational management skills, all which are essential for a successful career in health care administration.”
Gandhi ultimately wants to be a health care administrator, overseeing hospitals and clinics to enhance efficiency, streamline operations and improve patient care. He plans to attend UNC Charlotte in the fall, to obtain a Master of Health Administration.
I want to ensure that health care providers have the resources and support they need to focus on what they do best: Caring for patients. I have a strong passion for leadership and management in the health care field, and I am excited about the opportunity to make a difference in how health care facilities operate.
Arnav Gandhi, 2025
During his time at UNCG and in the Human Health Sciences program, Gandhi said his experiences within the program, including shadowing a pharmacist at UNC Medical Center
and working as an intern at Cone Health, focusing on project management, helped prepare him for a future career.
“UNCG has played a significant role in shaping my path, and I am excited about the opportunities ahead of me on my journey toward a career in health care administration,” he said. “The faculty, coursework, and experiences I’ve gained here have been instrumental in helping me discover my true passion.”
By Sarah Newell