Chandrika Ganduri

What inspired you to study public health?

During my sophomore year of high school, the COVID-19 pandemic hit the world. I
remember my friend was really worried that her parents, who were both essential workers, would get sick with COVID-19. She was afraid that they would not be able to afford treatment. It was during this time that I first heard the term, “public health.” I witnessed firsthand how public health initiatives such as free vaccinations, community health clinics, and affordable medications helped my friend. Suddenly, a whole new world of career opportunities became known to me. I was driven by the prospect of being able to work in healthcare and help hundreds or even thousands of people every day.

What has been a meaningful public health experience during your undergraduate program?

One meaningful public health experience I recently had was attending the Health Policy Immersion Program at The Washington Center in Washington D.C. I aim to work in health policy one day, so this was an invaluable experience. I was able to meet so many policy professionals working in different sectors across the country and I learned about policy formulation. My favorite part was meeting other students from different universities who are also passionate about public health and policy.

What kind of job are you hoping to pursue after graduation?

After receiving my Master’s in Health Administration, I hope to become a healthcare administrator to improve healthcare delivery and access. Specifically, I am interested in improving patient outcomes in underrepresented communities to better support them during future public health crises, which are expected to occur more often going forward. I want to be part of a team of healthcare administrators who advocate for high-value healthcare, giving people the best support possible. I would also love to work in health policy, to enact change on local and federal levels.

What would you tell a peer who was thinking about majoring in public health?

I would encourage anyone who is thinking about majoring in public health, to do it. Choosing a path in public health is undoubtedly the best decision I could have made for my education and career. I would tell my peer that public health is so versatile and they can specialize in anything, from epidemiology to policy to administration. There are an endless amount of opportunities, and they can do real good in the world. No matter where their interests lie, the field always needs more dedicated people willing to step up to the challenge.