What are you passionate about? More likely than not, you can apply it to a career in public health!
When I tell people I am studying to become an epidemiologist, I am often met with a follow-up question: “What even is epidemiology?” Over the years, I have received some amusing guesses, with some people thinking I am studying to become a skin doctor, or a bird scientist, or become really knowledgeable on how to use an EpiPen. I often take this as an opportunity to explain that I study how diseases spread and develop within a population. By conducting public health surveillance, risk assessment, and data analysis, we can inform and shape the new safety measures, regulations, and interventions that protect our communities.
Currently, I am completing the second year of my Master of Public Health (M.P.H.) in epidemiology through an accelerated program at the University of Maryland, from which I recently earned my Bachelor’s in public health science. This summer, I also had an amazing opportunity to intern at the American Public Health Association (APHA), where I worked closely with various state health associations, met with representatives in Congress to champion public health causes, and led APHA’s national Get Ready campaign for emergency preparedness!
As I advance in my career, I aspire to become a field epidemiologist for the state or federal government, where I can apply my expertise while pursuing my interests in regulatory science, healthcare access, and chronic diseases.
Applying passion
Although it may seem obvious now, my path to public health wasn’t always clear. I planned to major in biology in college, but witnessing the COVID-19 pandemic firsthand in high school changed my trajectory. I was fascinated by how public health professionals combined scientific expertise with public policy to protect entire populations. I realized public health was the answer I was looking for, allowing me to merge my passion for scientific discovery with a focus on advocacy to improve health on a broad scale.
One of the main aspects I like about public health as a career path is that it is interdisciplinary and truly has something to offer to everyone. As public health workers, we are first and foremost here to protect and serve the well-being of the public, but atop that foundation, you can apply so many skill sets.
As an example, I enjoy expressing myself creatively and making art in my free time. Over the years, I’ve learned that I can combine my interests and apply my creativity to public health advocacy. I leverage engaging communication methods, such as infographics and short-form content, to improve public discourse on topics like mental health and health literacy.
Discovering your dream career
Now, it’s your turn. Ask yourself, “What am I passionate about?” More likely than not, you can apply it to a career in public health!
Interested in advocacy and representation? Become a community health worker or public health legislator to work hands-on with the public to improve quality of life and access to healthcare resources.
Passionate about disease mechanics? Study virology or epidemiology and learn how to track disease outbreaks to inform interventions that protect the public.
Good at math? Apply your skills to health data as a biostatistician to assess the quality and efficacy of clinical treatments or harmful exposures.
Experienced with technology? Use a background in web design or graphics to innovate new methods to convey important health information to the public.
I hope this demonstrates that public health is a field where all backgrounds and skills have a place. Whether you’re an artist, a mathematician, a writer, or a scientist, you can make a meaningful difference in our communities as we work to improve the public’s health!
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