Anna Sellaro
This degree has challenged me in many different ways. It's taught me to look at health from a bigger perspective.
What does public health mean to you?
When I think of public health, I think of helping others. I wanted to help people through medicine, but I saw that it wasn't for me. Being a student in public health, you are still on the frontlines helping people – just in a different way.
Why did you choose to study public health?
I chose the field of public health at WVU after many attempts to find where I would belong in different majors my freshman year. I was introduced to the School of Public Health by the Career Services Department at the end of my freshman year and was able to take a tour of the school over the summer. That following fall semester, I was fully enrolled, and I knew immediately this was the field I wanted to be in for my future career. It all just clicked and I knew the material I was learning was a perfect fit for me.
What would you tell prospective students about WVU and the School of Public Health?
This degree has challenged me in many different ways. It's taught me to look at health from a bigger perspective than just one person. The school is so organized and ready to help you in any way, all you have to do is ask. They have truly set me up for my future endeavors.
How have your experiences in the School of Public Health helped prepare you for your future?
The professors and courses within the School of Public Health have helped me gain as much knowledge about the field before being sent out into the work field. Having the added advantage of being able to have a field placement the last semester before we graduate helps us get a firsthand look at the different career paths we can take after graduating.
Tell us about your capstone and field placement experience.
I was able to intern at Mon Health Medical Center here in Morgantown in the Quality Department. During my time there, I was able to sit in on meetings about their Acute Stroke Ready Program they were creating, and I created a dysphagia competency test for all nurses. I networked with over 23 different departments, where I learned what they do and why it is important to make the hospital function and provide the best care possible to patients. I also was able to travel to the new Mon Marion Hospital in Fairmont, WV, and the Preston Memorial Hospital in Kingwood, WV.
What advice would you give to your freshman self?
Don't worry, in the end you'll find the career where you best fit.
What do you plan to do upon completion of your degree?
I hope to either have a fellowship or job somewhere around Morgantown, W.Va. where I hope to stay after graduation. I am leaning towards either operations or human resources currently.
What do you think is the best tradition at WVU?
Singing country roads at any WVU sporting event!
What is your favorite book?
“Things We Never Got Over” by Lucy Score
What is your favorite TV series?
“Law and Order: SVU.”
What is your favorite music genre?
Country.
What is your favorite local restaurant?
Black Bear Burritos.
What is your favorite thing to do when you’re not doing schoolwork?
Spending time with my dog!