If you are considering Saint Louis University to continue your public health studies for graduate school, connecting with one of our M.P.H. Graduate Student Ambassadors is a great way to learn about the College for Public Health and Social Justice and life at SLU. This diverse and supportive group of students comes from across the US and abroad, and its members are eager to share their experiences with you.
Our M.P.H. Ambassadors can answer questions about graduate student life, their challenges, what they like best about living in St. Louis, share available resources, and so much more. All questions about applications and admissions requirements should be directed to our Director of Admissions Bernie Backer at bernard.backer@slu.edu
Monica Bates, CHES
Global Health and Childhood/Maternal Health
From: Missouri
Why did you choose SLU?
I chose the program because I found the global health concentration incredibly important
to the purpose of my M.P.H., and when I found out I had the ability to dual concentrate
on two topics I value so much. I instantly knew SLU was where I wanted to be.
What do you like about the program?
I love how close-knit of a community we have in each cohort, as well as how willing
and excited the professors are to help us students expand our careers.
Where do you see yourself after graduation?
I am hoping to continue working with the nonprofit organization that I interned for
during my APEX experience. I am excited about continuing to learn as much about the
field and various global projects.
You can contact me with questions on LinkedIn.
Shammah Kodjo-Soroh
Global Health & Maternal and Child Health
From: Nigeria
Why did you choose SLU CPHSJ?
I was thrilled with the dual-concentration options.
What do you like about the program/favorite thing about SLU?
My favorite thing about SLU is the sense of belonging. There are resources for just
about anything that you can think of.
Where do you see yourself after graduation?
After graduation, I see myself as a public health practitioner at a multilateral organization.
You can contact me with questions on LinkedIn.
Desislava Yordanova
M.P.H.-Global Health & Maternal and Child Health
From: Virginia
Why did you choose SLU CPHSJ?
I chose SLU CPHSJ due to the compelling dual concentrations in maternal and child
health and global health.
What do you like about the program/favorite thing about SLU?
I appreciate the program's richness in diversity, allowing me to explore various subjects
through the lens of individuals from diverse countries and cultures.
Where do you see yourself after graduation?
Following graduation, my goal is to acquire expertise in public health policy. I am
considering pursuing either a fellowship, working for an international organization,
or joining the Peace Corps to further contribute to public health initiatives
You can contact me with questions on LinkedIn.
Senhit Berhane
M.P.H.-Global Health & Epidemiology
From: Chicago
Why did you choose SLU CPHSJ?
I chose SLU CPHSJ because it embodies the Jesuit values that align with my personal
commitment to social justice in public health. The idea of cura personalis, caring for the whole person, resonates with me, especially in the context of public
health where individual well-being is at the heart of everything. The program has
allowed me to delve into real-world issues, understand the social factors that influence
health, and actively engage with communities.
What do you like about the program/favorite thing about SLU?
What I love about the SLU CPHSJ program is the incredible support I get from the faculty.
They have become mentors who are as passionate as I am about tackling social justice
issues in public health. They genuinely care about my research interests and my overall
well-being. The encouragement I receive makes me confident that I'm in the right place
to grow academically and personally while working towards positive change in the world.
Where do you see yourself after graduation?
After graduation from SLU CPHSJ, I envision myself diving into clinical research,
particularly focusing on chronic and infectious diseases. My goal is to contribute
to advancements in understanding, treating, and preventing these health challenges
both domestically and on a global scale. I am passionate about bridging the gap between
research and practical solutions, seeking opportunities to work collaboratively with
diverse communities to address health disparities.
You can contact me with questions on LinkedIn.
Kirtan Patel
M.P.H.- Epidemiology
From: India
Why did you choose SLU CPHSJ?
I chose SLU CPHSJ because of the diverse culture and the quality of the education
provided here, which is reflected by its national ranking.
What do you like about the program/favorite thing about SLU?
I like the supportive teaching staff and the stress-free education culture of the
M.P.H. program.
Where do you see yourself after graduation?
After graduation, I plan to work for a nonprofit with a vision of doing meaningful
and productive work aimed at improving the health standards of the community.
You can contact me with questions on LinkedIn.
Emily Wildhaber
M.P.H. - Health Management and Policy & Epidemiology
From: St. Louis
Why did you choose SLU CPHSJ?
I chose SLU because of its connections within the St. Louis community and its focus
on the social consequences of public health practice.
What do you like about the program/favorite thing about SLU?
How all the classes tie together with real-world experiences and examples. I like
being able to integrate both HMP and EPI to create a more robust picture of the public
health sphere.
Where do you see yourself after graduation?
Working in healthcare in St. Louis
You can contact me with questions on LinkedIn.