Paige Stewart
"Public health is a huge part of prevention, patient care, research, access to health needs, along with promoting healthy lifestyles and living."
What does public health mean to you?
Public health is a large piece in the puzzle of healthcare. It's protecting and improving health whether it's on the individual, community or population level. Public health is a huge part of prevention, patient care, research, access to health needs, along with promoting healthy lifestyles and living. Most importantly, it's everywhere in your day-to-day life affecting yourself and those around you.
Why did you choose to study public health at WVU?
I found very early on that I wanted to be involved in some facet of healthcare. I was so lucky to have been able to find the School of Public Health and learn how they contribute to healthcare through public health. WVU feels like home--it has that impact from the moment you step on campus, and you feel so connected here.
Have any members of the faculty or staff influenced you in a unique way?
I believe that all of the professors, academic advisers and counselors have a great love for the School of Public Health, and it is so evident by the way they serve the students. They are true mentors and never fail to give you support and encouragement in all paths.
Tell us about your field placement experience or other hands-on experiences.
Over my few years in the program, I have worked with the West Virginia Department of Health and Human Resources. I worked in the Bureau for Behavioral Health under the Adult Substance Use Disorder Division and was able to benefit greatly from research and grant writing. I was given the opportunity to attend conferences hosted by the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration federal agency that leads public health efforts to advance the behavioral health of the nation, as well as the West Virginia Drug Intervention Institute for the presentation of the Naloxone ONEbox.
What would you tell prospective students about WVU and the School of Public Health?
I would tell students to be positive, stay motivated and connect with your peers and faculty while in school.
What advice would you give to your freshman self?
I would tell my freshman self to just take it all in. Life goes by so fast, and these are some of the best years of your young adult life spent learning and growing that you will one day look back on.
How have your experiences in the School of Public Health helped prepare you for your future?
My experiences in the School of Public Health have better prepared me for a career by offering various professional development opportunities, career counseling, interprofessional education and long-lasting skillsets to be used in day-to-day functions.
What do you plan to do upon completion of your degree?
I have aspirations to be an administrator in a clinical healthcare facility setting.
Any additional involvement in activities or comments about the program?
I have had great opportunities through the School of Public Health to work with the Health Science Center and their advisory board as a representative for the School of Public Health. Also, I am a Dean's Ambassador for the school, and I am one of the leaders for the Student Association of Public Health.
What is your favorite book?
"A Beautiful, Terrible Thing" by Jen Waite
What is your favorite TV series and/or movie?
"Breaking Bad" and "Dirty Dancing"
Who is your favorite music artist?
I love all music!
What is a favorite place you’ve visited?
New York--it was a really cool and a timeless experience.
What is your favorite local restaurant?
Boston Beanery
What is your favorite thing to do when you’re not doing schoolwork?
Hang out with my friends!