Held on August 15 at the Don Soffer Clinical Research Center, the University of Miami Miller School of Medicine’s Department of Public Health Sciences welcomed incoming students from across its graduate public health programs, including the B.S.P.H/M.P.H. 4+1, Accelerated M.P.H., M.P.H., M.S.P.H., M.S. in Biostatistics, M.S. in Prevention Science and Community Health (PSCH), Ph.D. in Biostatistics, Ph.D. in Epidemiology, and Ph.D. in PSCH.
This year’s cohort brings a rich mix of professional backgrounds—ranging from clinical work and research to policy and more—offering unique perspectives to the department. Students are eager to address health disparities and improve global health outcomes through interdisciplinary learning and hands-on experience.
For many students, including Sandy Rosende, who holds a Bachelor of Science in Dietetics and Nutrition, the programs represent an opportunity for career growth and making a meaningful impact. “I am pursuing an M.P.H. degree in hopes of having a greater opportunity to grow my career,” said Rosende. “I currently work with several research teams within the university and would love to back up my work experience with education and increased knowledge within the field of public health.”
Rosende’s passion for public health is driven by a commitment to health equity. "I am most passionate about addressing equal access to healthcare and disease prevention and health promotion," she said.
The orientation highlighted the interdisciplinary approach of the programs, which integrates theory and practical experience. From epidemiology and biostatistics to health policy and disease prevention, the programs aim to equip students with the necessary skills to tackle today’s complex health issues. Faculty and staff emphasized the importance of hands-on learning, encouraging students to engage in internships, research, and fieldwork, to prepare them to address real-world health challenges.
Throughout the event, the excitement was palpable as students began forging connections and immersing themselves in the program's offerings. Reflecting on the success of the orientation, Ginelle Solis, Ed.D., M.P.A., director of admissions and recruitment, shared her thoughts on the positive start to the academic year. “The Fall 2024 orientation was a fantastic way to kick off the year with our incoming class. It was wonderful to see everyone come together and start building the strong community that defines our graduate programs.”
As these students embark on their journey, they look forward to becoming agents of change in the public health landscape. The Fall 2024 orientation set the tone for academic growth and ignited a passion in these future leaders to transform healthcare. With a foundation of interdisciplinary learning, hands-on experience, and a strong sense of community, this cohort will be well-prepared to tackle public health campaigns, policy development, and research initiatives. Supported by faculty and staff, the students are positioned to make a lasting impact on the world’s most pressing health challenges.
Written by Deycha Torres Hernández, published on August 26, 2024.
