Emily
Tell me about your background in public health
Emily: I started in the 4 + 1 program at the University of Massachusetts Amherst getting my master's in Health Policy. While I was there, I did an internship as a health department intern. The internship led me to a full-time offer where I started as a Health Inspector. I went on to work at the Shared Services Arrangement as a Regional Health Inspector and am now the Public Health Training Manager for the Central Massachusetts Regional Planning Commission and I run the central Massachusetts public health training hub.
What do you like most about working in local public health?
Emily: I like the comradery of everyone starting to advance into shared service arrangements and the uniformity across positions, specifically in my role.
What challenges have you encountered while working in local public health, and what strategies or approaches did you use to overcome them?
Emily: I felt out of my comfort zone at first, but growing out of my comfort zone and growing into my role as health inspector was good for me. It took time and excellent mentors, but now I can do it myself and use my learning experience to help others.
Outside of work, what hobbies do you have that contribute to your well-being and perspective in your professional life?
Emily: I go on a lot of walks and runs with my dog to keep active. My company had a challenge over the summer for walking and drinking water which was great.
What advice do you have for someone looking to begin a local public health career?
Emily: If you have the opportunity, I would highly recommend doing an internship. It gives you a good introduction to what you like and don't like in a job. I never would have imagined entering local public health, but my internship is what led me here.
What are your biggest takeaways from your experience in local public health?
Emily: No matter what community you work in, everyone is so involved and passionate about what they're doing. There is also never a standstill moment because everyone is always looking to move forward and work as a team.