What year did you graduate from the CPH and what is your degree?
I graduated in Spring 2022 with my BSPH.
In a nutshell, what do you do?
I currently work for Nationwide Children’s Hospital as a family advocacy clinician/advocate in their adult services department. Within my role I work with domestic, intimate partner, and elderly violence victims by connecting them to helpful resources for support within Franklin County and the surrounding area, as well as housing needs.
Did you participate in experiential learning as a student?
Yes, I completed an internship experience at Summa Health’s Diversity and Inclusion department with Iriel Hopkins, system director. I’ve done a lot of work in diversity recruitment and minority health. I spent most of my time outside the office in the community attending health fairs and speaking to individuals and families. For example, I attended a food bank event hosted by Open M and spoke to Akron residents about the COVID 19 vaccine and also how Summa Health could do more for them. I learned a lot about the needs of our community. My internship led to a position within my department this summer. In addition, I learned from my preceptor, Iriel, about the various ways I can make an impact on my community.
What are your future career aspirations?
I plan to go back to school and pursue my MPH with a dual degree in social work. I was born and raised in the Toledo area and I hope to find a position in a larger city as I enjoy a big city vibe. I love linking people to the services they need.
Why do you love what you do?
A lot of people come from the same socioeconomic background as me and are not afforded the same opportunities that I have been given, so if I can do my part of helping bring resources to people that wouldn’t necessarily have access to otherwise it brings me a sense of purpose and joy that I can be a help.
What are the most rewarding and challenging aspects of your work?
To see those served at health fairs and food banks receiving support – seeing their faces and how happy they are is very rewarding. I feel the biggest challenge is the great need in our community, far beyond what we can see. There are many that can’t make it out to receive the support they need.
How did your KSU CPH education prepare you for your work at Summa Health?
I changed my major two times before declaring public health as my major. Coming to Kent State through the Bridges program, I took advantage of an opportunity to earn college credit over the summer. I took courses that opened my eyes to things happening in healthcare that are not right. I took courses with Dr. Tina Bhargava including Racism as a Public Health Crisis, Advocacy and Activism, and Dr. Bhargava helped cultivate what I wanted to do. Speaking to her in my courses eventually led to my internship opportunity.
What advice would you give to current Public Health students?
I would say be engaged and open. Listen and ask questions in class and take advantage of the opportunities the college offers.