Yann Nene Bi

Share your favorite memory at WVU.  

What I remember most about my time at WVU is how helpful and accessible certain professors were from day one! And this was even before classes started. While some were a friendly ear to talk to, others were mentors and positive challenges. I felt encouraged and cheered on. They knew my name, they cared and it mattered a great deal! Thank you!  

How have your experiences in the School of Public Health helped prepare you for your future?  

I was presented with several learning opportunities that challenged me and kept me interested. As I tend to get bored when things get too easy or too simple, it was an awesome experience to always feel there was more to learn. I feel more ready than I even anticipated! I feel I can now confidently take on any challenge ahead.  

Tell us about your field placement experience.  

My field placement was great! Thanks to Dr. Gross, I secured an internship with the Monongalia County Health Department. I worked with the Quick Response Team (QRT) that was created in 2019 to curb overdose deaths in West Virginia using compassionate approaches and several stakeholders in the community. I harvested and analyzed the data and presented them during our weekly meeting. I saw the side of this opioid crisis that many people don't see when they look at substance use. Instead of giving in to stigma, taking a compassionate, public health approach to this issue, finding the root-cause of the problems and addressing them with evidence-based solutions, that's the way to go.  

Is there anyone in the WVU School of Public Health or beyond you'd like to thank? 

The list is long, but it started with Dr. Allen (as an undergraduate) and Dr. Duval (all the way to the end!) They inspired me to pursue a Public Health degree when I was thinking about law. With the Covid-19 pandemic it was an easy decision. I also want to thank Deans Carlton and Woodrum, Drs. Gross, Frances and Charbonnette! They were amazing cheerleaders, mentors and coaches! I can't forget Scot McIntosh, who helped me in many ways and encouraged me throughout this journey! I want to give a special note of thanks to my wonderful wife, Dr. Angela U, who kept seeing in me the man I have become even when I could not. She has been there for me through thick and thin. Thank you! To my children, I thank your love and admiration and hope and pray you'll do far better.  

What would you tell prospective students about WVU and the School of Public Health?  

Morgantown is one of the safest towns I have ever lived in. My family and I have been to many college towns in Texas, Missouri and Virginia and I can assure you that this is a safe place to be. WVU has a convivial and family-like atmosphere. We came here and fell in love with it. The School of Public Health is a big family. The libraries, classrooms, labs and clinical settings are top of the line, and you can find everything you need right here.  

What advice would you give to your freshman self?  

To my freshman self I would say: don't be afraid if you don't know for sure what you want to do in 3 years or 4 years! Many of us changed our majors at some point. Don't be afraid to dream big! Thomas Edison once said: "Many of life's failures are people who did not realize how close they were to success when they gave up." So, keep at it and don't give up! 

What do you plan to do upon completion of your degree?  

I plan to work in public health, I can't think of anything else to do especially now that I have acquired these skills. I also want to pursue my education and get at least one more degree. I plan to start a business at some point as it has always been my dream.