Undergraduate Spotlight Q&A: Meghana Gangireddy
Meghana Gangireddy, an undergraduate student in the Bachelor of Science in Health Management program, did a Q&A with the Saint Louis University College for Public Health and Social Justice.
What is your name, year, degree, concentration?
My name is Meghana Gangireddy and I am a majoring in health administration.
When did you do your internship?
During the summer of 2026, I interned with UnitedHealthcare.
What job did you do during your internship?
Throughout the internship, I gained valuable insight into both the operational and business sides of healthcare while developing skills that will support my future career in medicine.
Describe, in detail, the work you did during your internship?
During the first half of the internship, I learned how health insurance works and how healthcare organizations serve members through presentations, teaching-backs, and professional development experiences. I also participated in several team projects and competitions that challenged me to think creatively and collaborate with others.
What experience at your internship was most formative and stood out in relation to the degree you are seeking at SLU?
One of my favorite experiences was working on a team project that earned first place for creating an educational video about Medicare Advantage. I also helped develop a project that educated senior leaders about Generation Z. Instead of creating a traditional presentation, I contributed to designing a magazine and brochure format, which made the content more engaging and interactive. It was rewarding to see leadership respond positively to our creativity and innovation.
How did this internship prepare you for your career?
Throughout the internship, I competed in several internship-wide competitions and was recognized as a "Shark Tank" third-place finalist, earned second place in a sitewide competition, became a finalist in the "Make Your Own University" sales competition, and was recognized as a finalist for best presentation. These experiences allowed me to strengthen my communication, creativity and teamwork skills while collaborating with talented peers across the organization. During the second half of the internship, I focused on becoming Medicare- and Medicaid-certified and supporting agents by helping them access information and resources needed to better assist members. This experience gave me a deeper understanding of healthcare programs and the important role that healthcare professionals play in supporting patients and communities.
What was something unexpected that you learned from your internship?
One of the biggest lessons I learned from this internship was the importance of putting yourself out there. Networking, building connections, asking questions, and taking advantage of opportunities helped me grow both personally and professionally. More than anything, the experience strengthened my confidence in presenting and communicating with others. This confidence will continue to benefit me as an undergraduate researcher in the Janowiak Lab, where I present research posters and scientific findings. The presentation and communication skills I developed at UnitedHealthcare have made me more comfortable speaking to professional audiences and explaining complex information clearly.
How did your classroom experience at SLU intersect with your real-world experience in your internship?
As I prepare to apply to medical school and full-time opportunities in the future, I feel much more confident in understanding what interests me and how to communicate my experiences and goals. Learning about the internal processes that drive healthcare organizations has given me a broader perspective on healthcare delivery and patient care. I believe this understanding will help me become a more effective physician by allowing me to better navigate healthcare systems, collaborate with healthcare teams, and advocate for patients.
College for Public Health and Social Justice
The Saint Louis University College for Public Health and Social Justice is the only academic unit of its kind, studying social, environmental and physical influences that together determine the health and well-being of people and communities. It also is the only accredited school or college of public health among nearly 250 Catholic institutions of higher education in the United States. Guided by a mission of social justice and focus on finding innovative and collaborative solutions for complex health problems, the college offers nationally recognized programs in public health and health administration.