Public Health Philosophy
Given that life is special yet so undoubtedly fragile, global and public health education
must take precedence. While encapsulating each realm of health and wellness in our pursuit of
education, each day the importance of mental health becomes more evident. Throughout early
history, this focus was not openly discussed but today it weighs heavily on our society. Young
children, teens, and adults should not have to bear this weight alone, or at all.
This passion of mine does not stem from one experience or reason, but of many. In my
freshman year of high school, the direction of my intended future changed within one junior-
varsity soccer game. After breaking both bones in one leg, I refused to give up on my lifelong
sport. However, I was not prepared at the time for the physical and mental challenges that would
come along with it. From this point forward, my passion to help others within the medical field
began.
Majoring in Health Science with a concentration of Public Health, has provided me the
opportunity to explore this passion and many other elements of health. With a minor in Health
Education, I intend to pursue this knowledge by contributing to mental health education,
awareness, and prevention. Using evidence-based practices to focus on mental health concerns
within our communities can strengthen the effectiveness of primary, secondary, and tertiary
prevention. In accordance with the Code of Ethics for Health Education Profession, I will deliver
this evidence-based practice with integrity and respect to all people.
I view the primary prevention of mental health problems to be the most challenging, yet
important aspect to address. However, this will not deter my focus or steps that I can take to
educate people on the root causes that can be intercepted. While respecting the rights, dignity,
confidentiality, inclusivity, and worth of all people by tailoring these strategies to the diverse
needs of populations and communities. In the real world, not a single person will be affected by
the same root cause of mental health concerns, which is what makes this focus quite unique.
In the upcoming spring I will graduate with my Health Science degree from the
University of North Florida and continue my health education in a Physician Assistant program.
In these two years of the program, I will be receiving further education that focuses on the
medical model, disease pathology, clinical medicine, and physiology. The second year will
consist of clinical rotations throughout several specialties such as internal medicine, emergency
medicine, obstetrics, gynecology, psychiatry, and surgery. I intend to absorb these experiences to
better my comprehension of health services, and readiness to implement mental health education.
Along with my desire to contribute to the mental health of our society as a whole, I strive
to step into a role within government to make a larger impact. The Office of Behavioral Health,
Disability, and Aging Policy specifically aligns with my goals, and values to best serve our
communities. In my efforts to pursue this influential role, I will follow and use my education to
help develop, analyze, coordinate, and provide leadership on health policy issues. “I am only
one, but still I am one. I cannot do everything, but still, I can do something; and because I cannot
do everything, I will not refuse to do something that I can do.”-Edward Everette Hale
