DrPH Maternal and Child Health
"MEZCOPH is where the rubber meets the road; it not only provides an excellent education, but also an opportunity to apply theory into action by working with community organizations and partners."
-
Email:
amandarodgers@email.arizona.edu
Hometown:Challis, Idaho
Prior Degree(s):Master of Public Health in Family and Child Health - Maternal and Child Health from the University of Arizona; BA Degree in English, Writing Emphasis, Minor in Spanish from Boise State University
Before entering the program:I graduated with my MPH from MEZCOPH in May 2017. While earning my MPH, I was a Peace Corps Coverdell Fellow, and worked as a Research Coordinator at El Rio Community Health Center, as well as a Graduate Research Assistant at the UA Relationship Violence Prevention Office.
Why did you choose public health?I served two years as a Youth Development Volunteer for Peace Corps in Peru. My biggest project was in HIV/AIDS/STD and unwanted pregnancy prevention in the local high school. It was a very fulfilling project, and I realized all of the projects I enjoyed most were centered around improving community health. I couldn’t picture myself doing anything else after that.
Why did you choose MEZCOPH?What initially drew me to MEZCOPH for my MPH was the community-based curriculum, faculty, and uniqueness of Tucson. After completing my MPH at MEZCOPH, I didn’t even apply to other schools for the DrPH. During my MPH, I created strong ties with faculty and staff, and came to know many community organizations within Tucson that I knew I could work with to grow and develop my skills further.
Public health interests:Sexual Violence Prevention; Sexual Health; Women’s Health; Gender Equality
Internship:My dissertation is yet to be determined, but I am hoping to focus on sexual violence prevention in rural communities.
Interests/hobbies outside of school:Writing, reading, painting, running, hiking, biking, yoga, thrift shopping, and coffee drinking.
Tip for future students:1) Be proactive, 2) Take the time to connect with faculty and staff, they are a huge resource, 3) Make sure to take time for yourself and have fun, in the end you’ll be more productive and successful.