Meet iSchool alumna: Katie Smith

Posted by Kate Blosser on

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Katie Smith isn’t in Kansas anymore. Well – she’s close.

After graduating in 2012 with a Bachelor’s in Information Technology, she continued her education with a Master of Science in Integrated Marketing Communication. After graduating in December of 2013, she joined ranks at Cerner Corporation as a Clinical Reporting Analyst. Based in Kansas City, Missouri, Cerner is a leading supplier in health care information technology solutions with over 13,000 employees listed on LinkedIn.

Behind every great person is a greater story. Katie’s time at Florida State was deeply involved and shared that her involvement helped her to grow as a professional. “One of the best lessons I learned is that there is always something to learn and someone to learn from in every opportunity; you just have to go after it.”

She participated (and lead) in:

  • STARS (Students in Technology, Academics, Research & Science)
  • AITP (Association of IT Professionals)
  • Secretary of the Student Leadership Council
  • Vice President for WISE (Women in IT and ICT Sharing Experiences)

”I have known Katie since 2009 when she took her first IT class.  Working with students like Katie is easy – she already has the drive to succeed, the work ethic that leadership demands, the passion to make a difference; you have to guide her and then get out of her way,” said Ebe Randeree, Associate Dean and advisor to STARS and AITP. “In every project she took on (whether it was for a grade or as a volunteer in the community, she always gave 110% – she jumps in and makes a difference. She’s not done yet – she will continue to make impacts where ever she goes!”

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Her involvement in school activities is matched by her professional experience. Before joining Cerner, Katie:

  • taught public speaking labs at Florida State University
  • interned in Project Management with Tallahassee Memorial HealthCare
  • worked as a Marketing Manager for MedAffinity Corporation
  • interned in IT, Planning & Quality at Tallahassee Memorial HealthCare
  • worked as a Pharmacy Technician for Walgreens

“Throughout school I was focused on Health IT & received a Health IT Certificate,” shared Katie. “When Cerner offered me a job, I was very excited. I travel around the country consulting on the Cerner system and client needs.”

Still, the girl with two degrees and a killer job isn’t resting. “I’m working towards my Project Management Professional certificate,” she said. “I hope to work as a project manager in the future.”

Check out more of Katie & her work at www.heykatherine.com