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: Uma Sri Tejasvi Gottipati
Program: Master of Health Science, One Health
Educational background:Â Bachelor of Veterinary Medicine and Animal Husbandry (BVSc & AH), Post graduate diploma in Companion Animal Practice
Expected graduation: Fall 2025
Why did you choose the MHS One Health program at UF?
My decision to join the One Health program was shaped by my undergraduate studies in veterinary medicine and a growing curiosity about the intersection of human, animal and environmental health. During my clinical rotations, pet owners often asked about disease risks between people and pets. These conversations, coupled with a veterinary public health course in my third year, introduced me to the concept of One Health and deepened my interest in zoonotic diseases and preventive health. Volunteering at rabies vaccination campaigns during World Zoonoses Day allowed me to provide public education and engage communities on disease prevention. I also began keeping up with research and developments in zoonoses and global One Health. The COVID-19 pandemic further highlighted the importance of interdisciplinary collaboration and the need for integrated approaches to complex health challenges.
Motivated to explore this field further, I sought a program that would build on my veterinary background while expanding my understanding of public health systems. The University of Florida’s College of Public Health and Health Professions stood out for its commitment to One Health and interdisciplinary learning. I was honored to be accepted into the program, which has provided me with the knowledge and mentorship to pursue my goal of contributing to global One Health solutions. Joining the program has been empowering and transformative, and I am excited to continue this journey.
What have been some of your favorite moments in the MHS One Health program?
One of my most memorable moments was attending my first class, Environmental Risk Assessment. I clearly remember my excitement and curiosity as I stepped into a new academic environment in a new country. At the time, my understanding of One Health mainly centered on zoonotic diseases; I even introduced myself by saying I came to UF to learn more about them. Since then, my core coursework has transformed my perspective and given me a much broader, systems view of how human, animal and environmental health are linked. Participating in the Rx One Health Field Institute was another highlight, allowing me to apply theory in practice and collaborate with a diverse, global cohort.
I’m currently working on my capstone project, which focuses on identifying and characterizing fungal pathogens in the lungs of farmed white-tailed deer. By using histopathology and molecular tools such as DNA sequencing and phylogenetic analysis, it aims to better understand emerging fungal threats at the wildlife–agriculture interface—contributing to One Health research on zoonotic disease risk and surveillance.
The support from mentors, advisors and peers, both in the classroom and during fieldwork, has been invaluable. These experiences have shaped my academic and personal growth. Looking back, I am incredibly grateful for the opportunities this program has given me. I’ve gained not only knowledge but also the confidence and clarity to move forward as a One Health professional. I look forward to using what I’ve learned to contribute to global health solutions and a healthier, more connected world.
What do you plan to do with your degree?
With a background in veterinary medicine and clinical practice, I hope to integrate what I have learned in the One Health program to make a meaningful impact in veterinary medicine. While I am still considering specific career paths, I am particularly interested in applying One Health principles to emerging infectious disease surveillance, outbreak preparedness and zoonotic risk mitigation. I want to bridge the gap between clinical veterinary practice and public health, making animal health central to global health strategies. This degree has broadened my perspective and given me tools to address complicated health challenges through a collaborative, systems-based approach, ultimately improving both animal and human health.
What do you like to do in your spare time?
I love exploring new places and traveling, which gives me a fresh perspective and helps me unwind. I’m also passionate about sketching, which allows me to express creativity and recharge. Recently, I’ve enjoyed connecting with people from different fields through networking events and casual meetups. Learning about others’ journeys and finding opportunities to collaborate inspires me to grow. While I have always enjoyed playing sports, it’s something I would love to return to soon. I also enjoy reading books that broaden my worldview and personal growth, and of course, listening to music, which has always been a favorite pastime.
What would you like to share with others who may be considering the MHS One Health program?
If you’re considering the MHS One Health program at UF, I highly recommend it. Coming from a veterinary background, I first saw One Health mainly through the lens of zoonotic diseases, but this program broadened that understanding to encompass environmental sustainability, public policy, animal welfare and global partnership. The curriculum encourages you to think systemically about the connections between human, animal and environmental health.
Through immersive coursework and hands-on experiences, I have gained valuable skills in disease surveillance, risk assessment, policy communication and stakeholder engagement. The support from faculty and peers is outstanding, fostering an environment where you are encouraged to pursue your interests and ambitions. Whether your background is in public health, veterinary medicine or environmental science, this program will equip you to make a meaningful impact. It’s more than a degree—it’s a mindset that prepares you to lead collaborative, evidence-based solutions to global health challenges.
Is there anything else you would like to share?
I am grateful to be on this journey at UF. I have grown so much, personally and professionally, and am always thankful for the opportunities, support and incredible community. Go Gators!
Want to learn more?
If you’d like to learn more about the Master of Health Science, One Health program, click here.
Hey, current PHHP students! Want to share your story? Click here to learn how!