Texas Tech University

Robin Averhoff

Alumni Spotlight
Human Development and Family Studies, 2012
Supervisor, Patient Experience at Covenant Health
Robin Averhoff

Describe your experience as a student in the Human Development and Family Studies (HDFS) program.

I loved being in the College of Human Sciences and surrounded by faculty that cared and students who, like me, wanted a career that would allow them the opportunity to care for others, whether that was through teaching, healthcare, non-profit work or other various opportunities. 

Why did you choose your degree/major?
 

I knew I wanted a career where I could work with people, so even though I wasn't exactly sure what capacity that would be while I was in school, this major made sense. Now that I'm daily interacting with co-workers of many different backgrounds and education levels, I'm so glad I did!

How do you think your time in the Human Development and Family Studies (HDFS) program prepared you for your career?

My practicum class was the best thing that ever happened to me in college! I was unsure on my exact career path. Through my practicum/internship at Covenant Health, I learned about so many opportunities that I didn't know were out there. I loved learning that I could be involved in healthcare, but not be directly at the bedside. I saw that I could have the opportunity to work with those at the bedside and make a difference in patient's lives that way. Also, teaching has always been a passion of mine, but I knew teaching in a classroom was not for me and didn't realize companies needed training for adult learners. A practicum/internship experience is something I highly advocate for because sometimes you just don't know what all is out there, and real world experience is so very impactful. 

How did you find your job? How did you transition from graduation to what you do now?

I LOVED my internship and knew a career in healthcare was something I was passionate about. However, it didn't happen right after graduation. There were no positions that fit my skill set upon graduation so I ended up working at church, then transitioned to a nonprofit until I received a call one day that Covenant had a position that would fit my skill set perfectly. I was thrilled with the opportunity to interview, but also happy to know that the two roles I had spent time in equipped me for a role at Covenant. While I didn't realize it at the time, I was gaining valuable experience and skills from these jobs. 
 

How is your degree helping you make an impact in your career and/or other areas? 

The ability to read, understand, and effectively communicate with people has been tremendous help to me in my job. 

Are there any professors that took a special interest in you or helped you along the way?

I LOVED Mrs. Ziegner! She has a true passion for teaching, and makes every student feel valued. She had a huge impact on my life, and still does! Dr. Eade was also wonderful and really challenged how I saw the world and people who were different from me. I enjoyed all my professors, but those two left lasting impacts. 


What advice would you give to current students?
 

Find ways to get involved in areas you are interested in – intern, volunteer, seek guidance and ask questions! 

Pay more attention in class ;). I was always a good student and made good grades, but I didn't always soak in the information like I should have. I didn't realize that everything I was learning would actually come in handy and make a difference in the work I do.