Neelam Mishra

What inspired you to study public health?

I was raised in Nepal, a developing nation with limited access to healthcare, so I have always been deeply influenced by the injustices and health disparities that affect marginalized groups. My motivation to bring about significant change was sparked by my personal observations of the hardships encountered by communities with restricted access to healthcare. This motivation became very personal to me after I lost my father to COVID-19, which made me realize how important it is to prevent illness and live well. I became purposeful after witnessing the terrible consequences of insufficient public health infrastructure, concentrating on ways that might protect others from suffering the same fate. My commitment to close knowledge and practice gaps in public health has been increased by this personal experience as well as my love of community health and scientific research.

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

One of the most impactful experiences was my participation in the Idaho INBRE program, where I worked on LC-MS instrumentation to quantify neuroactive metabolites promoting healthy aging. This research not only enhanced my scientific understanding but also emphasized the practical applications of public health in advancing disease prevention. My work earned me the Best Undergraduate Poster Presentation award, validating the importance of my contributions to public health research.

Another meaningful experience has been my role as Student Body President, where I collaborate with the city of Pocatello and the ISU Counseling Center on mental health and wellness initiatives. Leading projects that directly impact the campus community has given me a deeper understanding of the importance of addressing public health challenges at a local level. These experiences have solidified my commitment to public health and my desire to contribute meaningfully to disease prevention and health equity.

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

After graduation, I aim to build a career that integrates both clinical and public health expertise. My goal is to become a Physician Assistant (PA) or Nurse Practitioner (NP) and later pursue a Master’s in Public Health (MPH) to specialize in disease prevention and healthy aging. Combining my clinical training with my public health background, I envision working to develop programs that address pressing health challenges such as addiction, chronic disease, and mental health disparities.

In the long term, I aspire to become an expert in public health, bridging the gap between research and community-focused interventions. My ultimate goal is to contribute to creating systems and strategies that prevent diseases, promote health equity, and improve the quality of life for underserved populations.

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

There are many opportunities to change the world in public health. This field offers something for everyone, regardless of your goals: enforcing seatbelt regulations, promoting immunizations, influencing policy for healthy communities, or carrying out important research. Public health gives you the opportunity to pursue your passions and effect significant change, from promoting mental wellbeing to minimizing health inequalities worldwide. It is more than just a major; it is a means of changing lives and establishing a fulfilling career.

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