Why did you choose SPH?

I was choosing what graduate program to attend in the Spring of 2020 during some of the most isolating months of the pandemic, and coming from the Midwest – so I had to base my decision of where to attend off of my own research and virtual conversations. I read the book ‘Well’ by Dean Galea around that time, and the themes of that book really resonated with me and gave me insight into the kind of public health education I wanted to receive. Additionally, I knew I was interested in reproductive health, but was not sure in what capacity yet, so I was glad that there was maternal and child/reproductive health opportunities in many different departments and academic tracks (i.e. Community Health, Global Health, Policy and Epidemiology) so I could explore what the best fit for me was.

How has research shaped your MPH experience?

In my position as a study coordinator of a large prospective cohort study, I truly have an inside look at every detail that goes into conducting epidemiologic research. Beginning with writing the grant and getting IRB approval, to enrolling and retaining participants, and finally analyzing the data they provide for publication in scientific journals. I think that this experience has really deepened my admiration for Public Health and field of Epidemiology. There is so much that needs to happen before the data can be analyzed or the manuscript can be written, and my heavy involvement in the research process has helped me read papers for class and contribute to classroom conversations with an informed and critical lens. Once you find an opportunity to participate in research, the more you invest in the project, and the more initiative you take, the more skills you will leave the experience with.

How have your professors and colleagues contributed to your public health career?

I feel so lucky to work on the PRESTO (Pregnancy Study Online) team and within the department of Epidemiology! I have had the chance to be mentored by professors, visiting researchers, and doctoral students through my involvement in the department and study. Asking questions about the pathways of everyone on the team and in the department that has landed them at the stage of their career where they are now has helped me understand how I want to chart my own path as an Epidemiologist and Public Health professional.