Alycia Hughes, MSW

Patient Affairs Specialist, M.D. Anderson Cancer Center, TX

“Find an area of social work you feel passionate about.”

I chose to work in health care because I wanted to help those suffering from chronic illness. My primary interest has always been in health care. So I chose to work at a major comprehensive cancer center helping cancer patients and their families.

I like making a difference in the lives of my patients, and removing an obstacle or a barrier so that my patient can cope more effectively with their cancer or their treatment. The best part of my job is receiving validation from patients and families who I have assisted in resolving a problem.

My social work degree has enabled me to learn how to understand human behavior, how to work with people more effectively, how to network with other health care professionals and how to access resources for my patients and families.