With the start of fall semester, the University of Florida College of Public Health and Health Professions welcomed a new group of Master of Public Health students, including 40 students enrolled in the combination Master of Public Health/Bachelor of Public Health program.
The newest M.P.H. students include several Gainesville natives as well as students who hail from New York, Texas, California and India. Among their many interests are a shared love of reading, study abroad and local farmers markets.
To help introduce these incoming students, we asked several to share a little about themselves, their interests and what inspired them to pursue public health.
Why did you decide to join the M.P.H. program?
Emmalise O’Harra
“I started at UF last year for my undergraduate degree in applied brain science and I couldn’t get enough of being at this school. The combined degree program not only allows me to stay for four years but also allows me to prepare for my future aspirations for Ph.D. school and becoming a neuropsychologist.”
Gabriela Merino
“I had a major career switch after I graduated with my bachelor’s in communications. I was working at a medical device company in the communication department. I realized I didn’t like the corporate life but my interest in healthcare started growing. I also have a background in social work due to my parents both being in social work. Healthcare advocacy is very important to me which is why I decided to look into M.P.H. programs. That is when I stumbled upon this program!”
Carrie Wells
“I work at UF as an Instructional Designer III, but I spent many years as an educator. I am ready for a career change and this seemed like a great fit!”
What are you most looking forward to?
Sanai Theodore
“I am most looking forward to getting to know the people in my program. What’s amazing about public health is that there are so many career paths you can take, so it’s been interesting to hear from my colleagues on what their goals and interests are.”
Megan Ayan
“I am most looking forward to finding a community of people with similar interests and paths.”
Nicollette Ramos
“I’m looking forward to meeting others within my concentration and connecting with them!”
What do you plan to do with your degree?
Keenan Wright
“My dream job is to work as an HIV prevention and management program coordinator within a state- or federal-level department of health. I enjoy helping people, and education is my favorite way to do so. I believe knowledge and skills unlock people’s potential and empower them to make better lives for themselves and their families. I have lived in Pennsylvania for most of my life, but I greatly enjoyed my time in the southeastern United States. After graduation, I hope to pursue a career in Georgia, Florida or Texas.”
Emilie Richardson
“I plan on pursuing epidemiology in government, research or private roles. I am also heavily considering going to law school and applying my B.P.H./M.P.H. knowledge to policy, regulatory and compliance roles in the legal field.”
Pravalika Manda
“I plan to use my M.P.H. to build a career in oncology, where I can combine my background in clinical research with public health and biostatistics. I’m particularly interested in using data driven approaches, including artificial intelligence, to improve cancer research, clinical decision-making, and patient outcomes. Ultimately, I hope to help develop innovative, data driven solutions that improve oncologic care and reduce disparities amongst vulnerable populations.”
Cristina Fargnoli
“I would like to work as an epidemiologist as I am interested in disease surveillance and investigating causes and patterns of diseases.”
What would you like to share with others who may be considering the same program?
Bella Burns
“Definitely do it! I was afraid that it would be too much or wouldn’t fit into my schedule, but all the advisers and staff have been so supportive and helpful in helping me plan my journey.”
Kayley Farmer
“The community that they build within the program is something everyone should try to experience.”
What do you like to do in your spare time?
Allison English
“Go outside, bird watch and spend time with friends and family.”
Laila Zaidi
“I love to do arts and crafts. I have spent most of my life painting and drawing, but recently, I explored some more. I love fabric painting, clay art and embroidery. I also love to watch shows and movies and hang out with my friends.”
Pooja Khalil
"I like to crochet, do pilates, hiking, reading, etc."