The following Interview was submitted by Ambassador League Agent Erin M. during the 2007-2008 League.
Interview With a Leader #3 - Sheryl Parker, Programmer
Sheryl Parker works at Sparrow Hospital in the St. Lawrence Center. She is a mother of three boys, and is involved with several committees. She attended Lansing Community College where she obtained her associates degree, and then attended Baker College where she received her bachelor's degree in Accounting/Computers.
Q: What is your job title and what all does that entail?
A: I am the Senior Systems analyst. Which means that I support the computer systems for the hospitals, and work on software installations.
Q: What training is important to prepare you for your position?
A: Schooling, bachelor's degree, and computer programming along with whatever area you're supporting.
Q: What is the best thing about your job?
A: When solving problems, the feeling of success.
Q: What is the greatest lesson you have learned from your job?
A: Always be honest.
Q: What do you think is the best way to learn things?
A: By doing things yourself.
Q: What role, if any, does faith play in your position?
A: God's given me the knowledge to always do my best, and work my hardest.
Q: Are you involved with any other organizations within the hospital? And if so what all does that entail?
A: Yes, a couple of different committees, one logistics committee, for leadership development conferences, all the details setup etc, The Care for the Caregivers committee, which helps other associates, after they've had a catastrophe. I am the treasurer, so I also keep track of how much money they have in the fund. And I am a Service Excellence Advisor, which basically means that I help others by my example to always do their best and keep a positive attitude.
Q: What do you recommend for students who are interested in working in your field?
A: Learning a lot when you go to school, getting good grades.
