I am a PhD candidate epidemiology at Walden University. My academic program is in the field of public health. My first reason for becoming a student volunteer with APHA was one of youthful curiosity about what is the meaning of APHA in terms of public health. I looked at other groups and participated in the student diversity groups working on developing public information fact sheets to promote a better understanding of public health issues. This exposure made me hungry for more epidemiology related activities. I wanted to learn more about how an epidemiologist participated APHA using the strengths of epidemiology.

My professor, Aaron Mendelsohn, inspired me to take a closer look inside of APHA through the APHA Epidemiology Section and other Sections. I found the Epidemiology Section offered the best fit for me because the Section leadership was very open and welcoming. Secondly, the Epidemiology Section supported my desire to learn from senior members and helped me to participate in many Section activities while still making the experience fun. From attending numerous meetings and hearing about the many different Section activities, I have found my own path to apply my skills in public health in a way that allows me to participate in positive social change. This step has allowed me to gain a better understanding of some public health issues not only in my community but also in communities in other communities.

Because of the inspiration and support I have received from my Section, I have taken bolder steps in joining fellow PhD candidates from my university in developing and planning three projects in which we will asset map communities and conduct evidence-based research to address specific needs of communities. As PhD candidates, our differences cut across many disciplines much like the epidemiology Section, and this fuels our creativity to find solutions in ways that will allow us to duplicate positive results in many communities.