Meet the students of 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: Owen Visser
Program: Ph.D. in Biostatistics
Hometown: St Augustine, Florida
Educational background: Master of Statistics
Why did you decide to join your program?
From my bachelor’s to master’s degree, I didn’t have much of a plan other than to continue my education. After quick friendship and lengthy discussion with a previous Ph.D. graduate from UF’s Biostatistics department, I decided to apply. The quality of professors is unmatched.
What have been some of your favorite moments in your program?
It’s quite funny that looking back the hardest moments became my favorites. Studying in a group for the qualifying exam, pushing to get a project finished before a conference, and attending conferences as both a presenter and an employee. The Biostatistics Student Organization also has fun student peer activities which I hold dearly in memory, such as pumpkin carving sessions at Halloween and potlucks held near Thanksgiving.
What do you plan to do with your degree?
Personally, I plan to research in some capacity, whether in industry or academia. There are still fundamental gaps in statistical methodology when it comes to health data, and hopefully I can make some impact and further the field.
What do you like to do in your spare time?
In my spare time I run long-distance, climb at The Knot, and unsurprisingly, play some videogames. Although the Ph.D. is time consuming, I still end up having some free time. It’s important to make a hobby one that challenges you physically or mentally.
What would you like to share with others who may be considering the same program?
I would say that it’s not a simple start and it will be challenging, but that is what makes it worth it. The people you’ll meet will be kind and helpful, and the skills you’ll develop will be unmatched. It’s still shocking to me how far I’ve come in just four years in this program.
Want to learn more?
Learn more about the Ph.D. in Biostatistics program.
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