We caught up with our new Analyst, Abby Rose, to learn more about her and how she became interested in health policy.
What sparked your interest in health care policy, and when did you first realize you wanted to work in this space?
I am specifically interested in health care policy for its real-world impact and ever-changing ecosystem. I love learning and helping people, and health care policy is a perfect overlap of the two as the new policies being created have a direct impact on the wellbeing of real people.
What did you study in college, and was there a class or project that really shaped how you think about health policy today?
I studied Political Science and Law & Public Policy, where I developed a strong understanding of the policymaking process. My interest in health policy peaked during my internships in the House of Representatives, through Indiana University’s DC Internship Program, where I had the opportunity to conduct policy research and attend hearings on various topics and saw how far health policy reaches.
Which health policy issue are you most curious about right now?
A health policy issue I am most curious about right now is the disparities in access to care across various demographics. I think better understanding who does and doesn’t have access to specific treatments is vital to recognizing the changes that need to be made.
What drew you to Chamber Hill Strategies, and what are you most excited to work on in your new role?
I was drawn to the firm’s reputation for thoughtful and effective bipartisan work. The firm being female-run was also very attractive to me because I think it’s very important to see strong women leaders in this field. I am most excited to support clients and go to meetings on the Hill to advocate for their issues.
What skills or experiences are you hoping to build during your first year here?
In my first year, I hope to gain a deeper understanding of health policy through hands-on experience supporting clients. I am very excited to deep dive into health policy and ensure clients’ issues are heard within the policymaking process.
How do you like to learn – diving into research, asking lots of questions, learning by doing, or a mix of everything?
I am definitely a visual learner so I learn best by doing and asking questions as I go.
What’s something people might be surprised to learn about you?
People might be surprised to learn that I can recite all of Hamilton from memory!
What does a perfect day outside of work look like for you?
A perfect day outside of work starts with a slow morning, then a long walk with an iced coffee with friends, a fun dinner, and finished off with a cozy movie night with my roommates.
What’s a favorite book that you’d recommend?
My favorite book is To Kill A Mockingbird, I read it for the first time in 7th grade and it has been at the top of my list since.
If you could give one piece of advice to a young professional interested in health policy, what would it be?
Stay curious and always ask questions. Health policy is constantly evolving and there is a lot of information to take in, so be open to learning from different perspectives.