Lifelong learner aims to enhance his career and community through health care technology
By Shane Adams
OSU Ecampus computer science student
I honestly have loved my experience online with Oregon State University. It’s been thrilling to pursue this dream. I’m very lucky that Elevance Health, my employer, pays a good portion of my tuition and I’m able to cover the balance. I have a bachelor’s degree and MBA already, but I wanted to pursue a postbaccalaureate degree in computer science online in hopes of making a profound impact in health care technology.
Shane Adams, a student in Oregon State’s online computer science postbaccalaureate program.
I want to build or at least help build solutions in health care that greatly increase availability and decrease costs for people. Who knows what the future holds in my career — maybe continued advancement into executive leadership at Elevance or founding a company myself.
But regardless, I want to help change people’s lives for the better.
While this is a dream of mine, it has not all been casual. I lead a team at Elevance and have three children under age 4 at home. I also serve on the board of directors of the nonprofit Decode Project, which advocates for eliminating inequities in education and improving literacy.
At times, I’m working well past midnight to keep up with everything, but it’s satisfying. I feel very blessed to be in the position to make an impact in my community, and that’s what truly keeps me going each day.
I think most people are hesitant to pursue anything new out of fear of failure, but you only live once is my attitude. When you’re wondering if you can do something, go for it. You’ll probably surprise yourself.
Chart a new career path in computer science online
No matter which industry you’re in, you can find a new path forward by enrolling in one of Oregon State’s many computer science programs online.
