What inspired you to study public health?
I was inspired to study public health by my experiences growing up in Indiana. I witnessed the shutdown of a long-standing grocery store chain while in high school, and my entire understanding of health and wellness changed as a result. I began to understand how zip code, access to food, performance in school, and health outcomes were all deeply interconnected.
What has been the single most rewarding experience of your career/studies so far?
As part of my health promotion studies, I was able to lead elementary school-aged children in an age-appropriate discussion of mental health. It was incredibly rewarding to both hear what the children already knew about their mental well-being but also introduce them to new stress-management techniques. It was the first time I truly got to witness my public health studies at work.
Where did you do your practicum? What was it about?
MetroHealth System – I served as a research assistant for the quality improvement project branch of a CardiOH, the Ohio Cardiovascular and Diabetes Health Collaborative
What do you hope to accomplish in your career?
I will be entering law school in the Fall of 2023. I am not entirely sure what I want to do with my career, but I wish to maintain the focus on community and interconnectedness that I developed throughout my public health career thus far.
Advice:
Making connections is so important, especially when you want to find practicum and capstone opportunities! Speak up in class and get to know your classmates.
Current Position June 2023:
Intern at the Indiana House Democratic Caucus
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