Hi I’m Assitan Drame

My Story

Personal Profile

As a first-generation college student born to Malian immigrant parents, I am proud to have not only completed an undergraduate program, but to have also pursued a Master's degree in Public Administration at Rutgers–Newark.

I was born and raised in Newark, NJ and am a product of the Newark Public Schools System. I graduated from Bard High School Early College with a high school diploma and an A.A. Degree in Liberal Arts. In addition, from grades 7-12 I participated in the Rutgers Future Scholars Program (RFS) which prepared me for college and guided me through my undergraduate career at RU-N as an RFS Alum.

I first found my love of serving my community as an undergraduate student. As a Community Service Officer Supervisor with Rutgers Public Safety, I began by working within my community to distribute food packages to those in need during the height of the COVID-19 Pandemic. From there I was granted the opportunity to work with Dr. Diane Hill and the Office of University Community Partnerships at Rutgers University-Newark on various community projects. The work we did encouraged me to further my education in the public service field.

I have always been interested in the healthcare field and this program has allowed me to combine my two passions. I have passion for community work and hope to improve health equity in my community.

Experience

RESUME

Community Health Worker, United HealthGroup

April 2022 - Present

Manages Medicaid patients/members of United healthcare on a regular basis to ensure their needs are met.
Oversee, update and keep track of confidential patient files following state regulatory guidelines.
Connects members to resources in their community to use as a tool to better their health. Works with providers, managers, and colleagues to ensure patients receive the best care.
Assists members in locating providers/specialists to guide their care.

Community Service Officer- Administrative Supervisor, Rutgers Public Safety

March 2019 - April 2023

Supervises a staff of up to 20 Community Service Officers (CSO) daily; oversees day to day operations, provides performance feedback, and addresses any staff concerns or complaints.
Effectively communicates regularly with students, employees, faculty and other visitors to answer questions, disseminate information and take orders.
Promptly addresses and resolves any escalated requests or issues brought forward by CSO staff and other channels.

Graduate Project Coordinator, Office of University-Community Partnership RU-N

September 2020 - May 2021

Working with community partners in an effort to encourage individuals in Essex & Union counties ages 55+ to get screened for colorectal and lung cancer.
Facilitates weekly team meetings to ensure everyone is up to date on the progress, update timeline as needed, detailed note taking and report writing.
Organizing virtual programs and implementing a media campaign, involving the creation of fliers, logos, a newsletter and active outreach initiatives.

Education

My Schooling

MPA, Rutgers University

Masters Degree in Public Administration with a concentration in Health Administration

September 2021 - May 2023

BA, Rutgers University

Bachelors Degree in Sociology with a minor in Biology

September 2016 - May 2021

AA, Bard College

Associates Degree in Liberal Arts

September 2014 - June 2016