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: Heather Mendez
Program: Ph.D. in Public Health, Social and Behavioral Sciences concentration
Hometown: Tampa, FL
Educational and professional background: B.S. in Health Sciences from University of South Florida and M.P.H. from University of Florida. I currently work as an epidemiologist and have experience working in informatics and analytics, communicable and environmental diseases, and emergency preparedness. I have worked as an adjunct instructor teaching undergraduate courses in the College of Public Health at USF. I obtained my Certification in Public Health, was awarded the MPH Exemplary Student in Public Health Practice, and have been inducted into several honorary societies, including Delta Omega. I am an active member of the American Public Health Association, Council for State and Territorial Epidemiologists and Florida Public Health Association, and participate in mentorship programs at UF, APHA and for state government.
What experiences and motivations led you here?
My experiences as a missionary and my motivations to set an example for my children and serve others led me to this point.
What challenges and triumphs have you encountered along the way?
There will always be challenges to be faced and triumphs to be had. For me, learning to navigate my professional and academic goals, while maintaining balance and prioritizing my personal goals and values has been both a challenge and triumph. I’ve had to work hard and have been able to experience the rewards and fulfillment of that hard work.
What have been some of your favorite moments in your program?
In the first year of my Ph.D. program, I have been able to develop new connections and collaborate with people in many different fields. I am thankful for opportunities to share my journey with others. This program is very robust and achieving the demands of the program is very rewarding.
What do you plan to do with your degree?
I intend to continue my journey in academia and work towards my long-term goals and passions, including conducting outreach initiatives and working with communities in need. My research interests are in community health, disease prevention, social determinants of health, sociocultural risks and protective factors, health equity, resilience-building and health promotion for vulnerable and underserved communities
What would you like to share with others who may be considering the same program and same path?
This program is competitive and rigorous and you’ll get out of it as much as you pour into it.
Do not limit yourself, grow your connections, show yourself grace.
What do you like to do in your spare time?
I love attending my children’s soccer games and school events, adventuring with my family, traveling and trying new foods with my husband, reading, being outdoors, watching movies and jamming out with my kids.
Want to learn more?
Learn more about the Ph.D. in Public Health, Social and Behavioral Science concentration.
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