Meet the students from the College of Public Health and Health Professions, a diverse group dedicated to improving health and well-being in communities around the world. These students come from various backgrounds, united by their passion for health and their commitment to making a positive impact. They bring unique perspectives and experiences to their studies, preparing to become the next generation of health professionals who will address pressing health challenges and advance their field.
Meet: Karin Rashid
Program: Bachelor of Public Health/Master of Public Health
Expected Graduation: Spring 2025
Why did you decide to join the BPH/MPH Combined degree program?
I found my passion for public health at the University of Florida when I took an intro to public health course. I became eager to foster and understand community engagement to advocate for health policy. I also found interest in global health research and hope to work in the public health law space in the future. My involvement in the McKune Lab is my main reason for wanting to continue studying and obtain my master’s in public health at UF. I have created meaningful connections and gained invaluable mentorship from the principal investigator of my lab, Dr. Sarah McKune, and other important members, such as Dr. Heather Stark, Chhavi Tiwari, Daniel Acosta, and the many other graduate and undergraduate students with whom I have had the pleasure of working hand in hand. The research that my lab does is critical, and I hope to continue my research at a graduate level as an MPH student.
What have been some of your favorite moments in your program?
Most of my courses consist of group work since work in the public health field is also very collaborative and interdisciplinary. I have enjoyed meeting other students in the BPH and MPH programs and being able to collaborate with them. My favorite moments have been learning something new or gaining new insights and perspectives on public health topics and issues from my peers.
What do you plan to do with your degree?
I plan to apply the skills and knowledge I gain in the field. I plan to continue my education and obtain my MPH to develop a strong, comprehensive public health background. I am considering law school, as I want to pursue public health law or work in the health policy space in the future.
What do you like to do in your spare time?
I enjoy trying new cuisines or foods, whether visiting a local restaurant I have never tried before or finding authentic recipes online and cooking something new on my own. I also enjoy spending time with my friends and family.
What would you like to share with others who may be considering the combined degree program?
As a first-generation student, navigating college has come with its challenges. I found support and guidance from peers, mentors, and faculty. I highly encourage anyone interested in the BPH or MPH programs to engage with faculty, as they are supportive and want to see you succeed both in their courses and in your own life. Making friends with the people in your courses is always helpful because teamwork and collaboration will always appear in public health. Talking to upperclassmen who have taken the courses you anticipate taking will help you get a better idea of what to expect and get tips on how to do well in the course.
Is there anything else you would like to share?
I was indecisive about pursuing the combined degree program because I was not sure if I was a good fit or if I would be able to afford it, but meeting one-on-one with advisors at UF helped me know that it was the right decision for me.
Want to learn more?
If you’d like to learn more about PHHP’s BPH/MPH Combined degree program, click here.
Hey, current PHHP students! Want to share your story? Click here to learn how!