Currently, I am enrolled full-time in the Public Health graduate program at UNF with a

concentration in Epidemiology. After I graduated Magna Cum Laude with a bachelor’s degree in
Public Health from the University of North Florida, I took some time to reflect on the next steps
in my life, and how I envisioned myself in the professional world. It was during this time that I
realized I greatly missed Public Health. Shortly after, I was given the opportunity to work
alongside a former professor to conduct public health research. After starting this collaboration
my passion for health promotion and disease prevention was reignited. I decided to seek a
Master’s in Public Health to complete the goal I made in my Foundations class; to be a voice for
the voiceless. To me, the target population I am most interested in serving are those with
disabilities, individuals experiencing mental illness, vulnerable populations, and animals. Having
a Master’s in Public Health would give me the platform to focus on the importance of
preventative health for these vulnerable populations. I want to focus on educating the community
while also breaking down any judgmental ideology that may surround the individuals in my
target population.

In my spare time I assist a former professor with research projects that include
conducting, analyzing, and publishing content. Our first paper was recently published by the
American Journal of Health Education. This research opportunity has helped me sharpen my
critical thinking skills and professionalism. Along with school, I am currently a Disease
Investigator at Baptist Health. The position has allowed me to apply epidemiologic practices
firsthand while also educating team members on proper preventive measures. Since my current
role is dealing with COVID, I am better able to handle fast pace situations and learn new
practices quickly. With my upcoming internship, I am looking to sharpen my skills with disease
prevention. I am also hoping to find a position that will offer me a new role than I have not done
previously, allowing me to continue to expand my knowledge. Although I have no plans on
going back to school, I do plan to continue my education by achieving specific certifications.

After completing my master’s, I am hoping to climb my way up the Public Health

professional ladder. I envision myself utilizing this degree to enhance my ability to provide
preventative measures for vulnerable populations. My overall goal is to work at one of our local
hospitals helping to prevent and limit the spread of diseases within the community. Working
within a hospital allows me to serve my target population, as well as my entire community.
Outside of the hospital setting, I also want to be a part of the implementation process to educate
the community on programs that help reduce the spread of harmful diseases. While I do prefer
working behind the scenes, my experience has showed me the importance voice public health
professionals need to have in order to make a successful impact. In my professional career, I
hope to achieve success by using my epidemiologic skills and knowledge to prevent and reduce
cases of disease in my community.