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: Xue Wu
Meet: Xue Wu
Program: Ph.D. in Environmental Health
Hometown: Hubei, China
Educational background: B.S. in Veterinary Medicine (evaluated as U.S. equivalent to Doctor of Veterinary Medicine)
Why did you decide to join your program?
I decided to join my program because it aligns perfectly with the kind of training and impact I want. My principal investigator’s group focuses on developing computational models to address nanomedicine, animal-derived food safety,and human health risk assessment issues, exactly the areas I want to learn more deeply. This program gives me the quantitative tools, mentorship and applied research environment to grow in computational modeling while contributing to research that supports real-world safety and health decisions.
What have been some of your favorite moments in your program?
Some of my favorite moments have been the community-building ones outside the classroom and lab. I loved going tubing with my cohort at Ichetucknee Springs. It was such a fun, “very Florida” way to relax and bond. I’ve also really enjoyed potlucks at professors’ houses, which made the program feel welcoming and supportive. And on the more casual side, hanging out with peers at local spots like Swamp Head Brewery and First Magnitude Brewing Company has been a great way to decompress, celebrate milestones and build friendships that make the program experience even better.
What do you plan to do with your degree?
I plan to use my degree to build a career in computational modeling and risk assessment, applying tools like PK/PBPK modeling and data-driven prediction to real-world health and safety questions. My long-term goal is to work in industry or a government agency, where I can contribute to areas like animal-derived food safety, human health risk assessment and translational modeling for decision-making, which directly supports evidence-based policy and public health protection.
What do you like to do in your spare time?
In my spare time, I love doing things that feel both creative and relaxing. I’m a pretty good home chef, and lately I’ve also been into making coffee, basically a barista right now. I enjoy hanging out with friends, and at home, I’ve been working on socializing and training my cat, Baobi. I also recently picked up crochet, which has been a fun new hobby and a nice way to unwind.
What would you like to share with others who may be considering the same program?
If you’re considering this program, I’d say come in with curiosity and be ready to explore across topics. There’s a lot of flexibility to shape your path. You can find supportive mentors and a collaborative community if you’re proactive about reaching out. Also, take advantage of opportunities early (seminars, collaborations, conferences), because they really help you grow fast. And don’t forget to enjoy the experience. Some of the best parts are the friendships and the little moments outside of class and lab.
Is there anything else you would like to share?
No one is coming, you’re on your own. That sounds harsh, but I mean it in a motivating way. This program will give you resources and opportunities, but you have to advocate for yourself, ask for what you need, and create momentum, especially when things feel hard or uncertain. Once you accept that, it becomes empowering: you realize you can build your path, find your people and grow a lot faster than you expected.
Want to learn more?
If you’d like to learn more about the Ph.D. in Public Health with a concentration in Environmental Health program, click here.
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