Chloe Sidick

What does public health mean to you?

Public health to me means helping to promote the health of individuals and communities by educating and improving lives by helping them get the tools to do so.

Why did you choose to study public health at WVU?

I chose to study public health at West Virginia University because I have always had an interest in helping people on a community level.

Have any members of the faculty or staff influenced you in a unique way?

If I was to give a shoutout to someone it would be Audra Hamrick. She has answered my MANY emails and questions. She does so much for the School of Public Health, and I am so grateful for all her help!

Tell us about your field placement experience.

This summer I interned with the Ohio Department of Health for the Office of Public Health Practice. I worked on many different projects, but the main project I helped with is the Statewide Health Assessment and the Statewide Health Improvement Plan. These will be utilized by local health departments, hospitals and other various organizations throughout Ohio.

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

Being an out-of-state student, I was worried about not knowing many people. WVU immediately felt like home, and I am so grateful for all the opportunities I have been given and the people I have met. The School of Public Health overly prepared me for my internship, and the professors and faculty members have done nothing but help me achieve my goals. I would not have the internship I do without their help!

What advice would you give to your freshman self?

Embrace all opportunities that come your way! You're at school for an education, but also remember to have fun. 

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

The School of Public Health has not only provided me with a great education, but it has also allowed me to make connections both within and outside of WVU. My experiences have prepared me to be successful in whatever I decide to pursue in the future.

What is your favorite book? 

Where the Crawdads Sing

What is your favorite movie?

Any Will Ferrell movie!

What is your favorite music genre?  

I love all genres of music!

What is a favorite place you’ve visited?

Israel. It is such an amazing country full of great culture, food and history.

What is your favorite local restaurant and hangout spot?

A trip to Coopers Rock or breakfast at The Grind are always my go-to spots in Morgantown! 

What is your favorite thing to do when you’re not doing schoolwork?

There are so many great parks around Morgantown! I always try to go to a different park at least once a week when I have time.

What will you always remember from your time at WVU? 

All of the amazing people I have met.

What do you think is the best tradition at WVU?

Singing Country Roads after a win... and the blue lot!

Why should someone choose WVU to study public health?

The professors are so supportive and want every student to succeed. Because of the professors and the curriculum during my undergrad, I was able to intern with the Ohio Department of Health and WVU Medicine. These were both great experiences, and what I had learned from the WVU School of Public Health allowed me to get these internships and prepared me for each internship. 

What are some unique or interesting experiences you've had during your time at WVU?

Too many to share! This has been a great three and a half years.

What are your plans following graduation? What is your ultimate career goal?

I will be starting the Accelerated Nursing Program at WVU in January. My ultimate career goal is to practice as a nurse and influence the health of Appalachia through prevention and education specifically in substance use disorder and mental health.

What are you looking forward to most after graduation?

Seeing what new and exciting opportunities come my way.