06/01/2026
First freshman-admitted student to graduate!
The Health Information Management program is celebrating a significant milestone with the graduation of Sajith Jacob, the first student admitted directly as a freshman to complete the HIM program.
The HIM program has a long and respected history at UIC, dating back to 1965. For more than 50 years, students interested in Health Information Management could not officially declare HIM as their major until the junior year. In March 2022, the program was approved to begin accepting freshman students, creating a new pathway for students to enter the major earlier in their academic journey.
That important change has now come full circle. Sajith entered the program as part of the first freshman-admitted group and has now become the first freshman-admitted student to complete the HIM program. This milestone represents more than an individual achievement. It reflects the program’s continued evolution and commitment to preparing students earlier for careers in health information, health data, compliance, healthcare operations, and the growing digital health environment.
“I am so grateful to have chosen the HIM program as a freshman student,” Sajith said. “What drew me to this program was the unconventional and evolving nature of the field, and it was extremely flexible in the first two years, allowing me to complete many of my pre-med required classes. Although I was sure that I would pursue medical school right after graduation, I am leaving the program dedicated to growing in this multifaceted profession. I am incredibly grateful for my professors and friends who helped me discover this exciting career path, and I cannot wait to keep learning and contributing to healthcare in this way.”
Sajith’s experience highlights the value of allowing students to enter the HIM major earlier in their academic careers. His path also reflects the versatility of the HIM profession, which continues to attract students with interests in healthcare, data, technology, operations, and patient-centered systems.
The HIM program congratulates Sajith Jacob on his graduation and proudly celebrates his place in program history as the first freshman admitted to the program to complete the degree. His achievement marks an important moment for the program and helps open the door for future students beginning their HIM journey as freshmen.
