Her Story
About Sonia
With a family background in healthcare, I’ve always been drawn to the field and motivated to improve patient care through technology and innovation. Post graduation, I connected with a medical device recruiter at a career fair at UNC Charlotte, and they were hiring for a product management position, which I knew very little about. That was my entry point, and I’ve since built my career by taking on roles at industry leading companies. About four years ago, during the health AI boom, I took a leap of faith and joined my first startup company. I quickly realized I could make a bigger and faster impact at an early-stage startup, where there’s more untapped opportunity. I'm a very passionate and mission-driven individual especially when I believe in the product.
Her Interview
Ten minutes with Sonia
01What do you attribute your success to?
It's a small space, so your network really matters, and ensuring that you maintain good relationships and don't burn bridges is difficult to do, but I feel like I've done it well. I'm an extremely hard worker, very determined, and a bit of an over achiever. You have to be extremely resourceful in this line of work - no one is here to handhold you.
02What’s the best career advice you’ve ever received?
Look for growth opportunities, be visible, use your voice strategically and always advocate for yourself.
03What advice would you give to young women entering your industry?
I would say 1) network and develop your personal brand as much as possible 2) work hard and prove yourself in the beginning, but don’t forget to set healthy boundaries 3) never be intimated by those who “look better on paper” when you have the determination and grit to master skills on the job.
04What are the biggest challenges or opportunities in your field right now?
I think as exciting as the AI space is, it's also very scary for a lot of clinicians and administrators who fear their jobs are at risk. In healthcare, you're always going to need a human in the loop, but it's just getting over that initial hesitation or misconception. The other challenge is that because the AI space is so hot right now, there are so many companies knocking on these health systems doors, and they've heard the same pitch probably a hundred times, so you have to be able to clearly differentiate yourself in a crowded space.
05What values are most important to you in your work and personal life?
Being a good human and effective communicator.
Keep Exploring
More Influential Women · North Carolina
Join Influential Women and start making an impact. Register now.