Year 3

This past school year (2025-2026) has been a transformative period of growth, exploration, and leadership. Going into my fourth year, I’ve embraced new academic challenges while expanding my professional skills through co-curricular involvement. My journey has been defined by leadership roles, hands-on activities, my first public health internship, and my first study abroad experience in Scandinavia. All of which have deepened my commitment to public health, environmental sustainability, and digital storytelling. From joining Eta Sigma Gamma to serving on the executive board of the National Society of Leadership and Success (NSLS), and from creating content for HerCampus to studying climate and public health systems in Sweden, Denmark, and Finland, this year has equipped me with invaluable skills in leadership, communication, and critical thinking. These experiences have not only reinforced my strengths but also highlighted areas where I can continue to grow as I prepare for graduation in 2028.

Academically, my coursework in public health and environmental studies has challenged me to think more critically about the intersections between human health and the environment. Courses like Professionalism and Pathways, Global Health, and Climate Health and Public Policy pushed me to analyze how systems, policies, and individual behaviors shape health outcomes. My study abroad experience in Scandinavia became a living classroom, where I saw these concepts in action. Visiting institutions like the Nordic Museum and The Finnish Institute for Health and Welfare reinforced my understanding of how infrastructure and education can drive both public health and environmental sustainability. This experience also deepened my appreciation for data-driven, science-based decision-making, a skill I’ve since applied to my coursework and professional roles.

My summer 2025 internship as an Environmental Health Intern was a defining experience. I organized free mosquito-fighting supplies and educational materials for the public, conducted site visits independently, and created digital content as well as word scripts for the director’s interviews. This role strengthened my ability to work autonomously, communicate complex health information clearly, and collaborate with teams to execute public health initiatives.

Serving on the executive board for NSLS as the Co-Social Media Coordinator taught me how to track engagement metrics using Excel, curate content for Instagram as an information hub, and collaborate effectively with a team to plan events and manage campaigns. These responsibilities honed my data literacy, adaptability, and ability to tailor communication for our audience. Meanwhile, joining Eta Sigma Gamma allowed me to engage in health education advocacy, participate in workshops on health equity, and collaborate on projects promoting public health awareness. I’m particularly proud of writing questions for our professional speaker panel at the annual Public Health Summit and serving as the facilitator for the session. As an active member of HerCampus’ social team, I merged my passions for public health and environmental studies with digital storytelling, creating content that engages our audience on topics like sustainability and wellness trends. These roles have strengthened my ability to communicate complex ideas clearly, work collaboratively, and lead with purpose.

My study abroad experience in Scandinavia was a pivotal moment in my development as a future public health professional. Beyond the academic insights, the trip challenged me to navigate cultural differences with curiosity and adaptability, whether discussing climate policy with a Swedish researcher or exploring Helsinki’s public health initiatives. Witnessing how Scandinavian countries prioritize science, sustainability, and collective well-being contrasted sharply with my experiences in the U.S., sparking a deeper commitment to advocating for systemic change in my own community. This experience strengthened my critical thinking skills, particularly in analyzing the political, economic, and cultural factors that shape public health and environmental policies.

I’m proud of the strengths I’ve continued to build, such as leadership, communication, and advocacy. However, I recognize areas for further development, including data analysis, public speaking, and interdisciplinary collaboration. Next year, I plan to deepen my quantitative analysis skills, attend speaker events on the intersection of humans and the environment, and continue practicing ASL to become more fluent. I’m also eager to seek out opportunities in healthcare programs, operations, or environmental justice.

Looking ahead, I’m excited to build on this foundation and take on new challenges. My academic goals include completing my minor in environmental studies, exploring advanced courses in program planning, and contributing to research that bridges these fields. Professionally, I aim to leverage my skills in digital communication and organizing to make a meaningful impact. I’m also committed to growing as a leader within Eta Sigma Gamma and NSLS, potentially taking on more prominent roles.

This year has been defined by growth, connection, and clarity about my passions and goals. The experiences I’ve had in and out of the classroom have reinforced my commitment to public health, environmental sustainability, and advocacy. As I move forward, I’m eager to deepen my expertise, expand my network, and continue taking on leadership roles that allow me to drive change. I’m confident that the skills and lessons I’ve gained this year will serve as a strong foundation for my future, and I’m excited to see where this journey takes me next.