Director of Healthcare Media, Golin Health
While at the Friedman School, Lauren earned her MS in Nutrition from the Nutrition Interventions, Communication, and Behavior Change program.
1. What do you love about your job? 
I love my job as a media relations expert at Golin Health because it allows me to play a vital role in promoting public health while working with large companies. Every day, I indirectly help people by communicating important health messages that can make a real difference in their lives. I also counsel clients on significant policy changes in the healthcare space and provide media training to executives, equipping them to respond effectively to media inquiries. This role not only lets me leverage my health and wellness expertise but also hone my writing skills, as I craft compelling narratives that resonate with diverse audiences. It’s incredibly rewarding to know that my work contributes to a larger cause, making a positive impact on community health.
2. How did you get your first job after Friedman? 
I graduated in a very hard year at a very hard time: 2020, the peak of the pandemic. I knew I wanted to get back into Public Relations (I was working with food and beverage clients previously) but in a healthcare / health and wellness capacity. I ended up taking a job at a well regarded, competitive agency but as a member of their crisis communications team. It was super interesting. I wasn’t able to flex my degree muscles, but I gained valuable experience counseling clients on how to respond to the COVID-19 pandemic and the BLM movement. After about a year I transitioned to another healthcare PR agency and haven’t looked back since.
3. What/who was the most memorable course/professor at Friedman? 
Corby Kummer – I sincerely looked forward to his class each week while at Friedman. Corby profoundly influenced my development as a writer and PR professional. He constantly pushed me to refine my skills and think outside the box, challenging my assumptions and encouraging me to explore new perspectives. This rigor not only enhanced my writing but also instilled in me the importance of innovation in communication. As a result, I now inspire my clients to break away from conventional thinking and challenge the status quo, fostering creativity and fresh ideas in our media strategies.Â
4. What lessons did you learn at Friedman that continue to influence you in your job and career? 
My master’s degree at Friedman has been instrumental in shaping my approach to public health in my current profession, where I counsel a Fortune 1 company and others. While I may not be on the ground at a nonprofit or working directly with communities, the invaluable lessons I learned at Friedman have profoundly influenced my work. This education provided me with a deep understanding of the complex factors that influence health behaviors and community well-being. It equipped me with the tools to analyze public health issues critically and develop effective communication strategies that resonate with diverse audiences. By integrating my knowledge of nutrition and behavior change, I help companies advocate for healthier lifestyles and encourage them to empower communities to make informed choices, ultimately contributing to improved public health outcomes.
5. What advice do you have for Friedman students as they embark on their careers? 
After completing my degree, I quickly realized that my career path was not as linear as I had initially envisioned. I once thought I wanted to work for a nonprofit or become a registered dietitian, but I discovered that my true passion lies in writing and counseling clients via strong strategies and media relations that have a big impact on society. This shift has allowed me to utilize my degree in a fulfilling way, blending my knowledge of public health with effective communication strategies. I encourage students to explore career paths that resonate with their interests and passions, rather than simply following what they think they should do. 
Interested in connecting with Lauren? Find her HERE.
