Kali Ellison

How do you define public health? What does it mean to you?

Public Health is about promoting and protecting the health of people within a community. A doctor focuses on one person; in public health, you focus on a community of people. To me, Public Health means prevention.

Why did you choose WVU for your public health education?

I chose WVU because it has a family atmosphere, and you always feel welcomed somewhere.

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

My first adviser coming into WVU, Chasity Mayhew. She helped me find my way to Public Health and was always there for me. She pushed me to strive and be the best version of myself.

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

During my time at WVU, I had a lot of experiences and community service opportunities. One that sticks out to me was a community learning class that allowed me to complete 10 hours at North Elementary. I got to spend time with the kids while doing their garden program.

You’re ending your academic journey during a unique time in our history. What has been both good and bad about studying public health and completing your college degree during a pandemic?

I think that both good and bad have been switching to remote learning. It was an adjustment, but then once we got used to it, it all flowed well. Then switching back from remote learning was also hard. Public Health during a pandemic though gave you a front-row seat to what the major really is.

Tell us about your capstone/field placement experience.

I did my field placement in my hometown at the Wyoming County Health Department. Wyoming County has a rough population of about 22,000 people. Compared to Monongalia County, it is very small. During my time with this Health Department, we focused our efforts on COVID-19, including testing sites, vaccine clinics, and contact tracing. I was able to get a lot of hands-on experience, which showed me what a job coming out of undergraduate program might look like for someone interested in the health department aspect of public health.

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

I will be attending BridgeValley Community and Technical College beginning in the fall for dental hygiene. When I complete that degree, I want to apply both degrees together to better the oral health status of southern West Virginia.

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

At WVU, the staff always makes you feel welcome; they open their arms to you. The professors within the school of Public Health always make it a point to get to know you on a one-on-one basis to help you throughout your journey at WVU.

What advice would you give to your freshman self?

The advice I would give to myself is to take care of myself and make my health a priority. Also, it is okay to change your major!

What will you always remember from your time at WVU?

I will always remember the people I have met and the professors I have had within the School of Public Health. They have helped guide me to where I am today.

What do you think is the best tradition at WVU?

The best tradition at WVU is singing “Country Roads” after a win no matter what sporting event you are at.

Why should someone choose WVU to study public health?

You should choose Public Health at WVU because the professors do their best to provide a one-on-one experience throughout your four years here at WVU.

What are you looking forward to most after graduation?

I am looking forward to continuing my education at BridgeValley and being able to come back to sporting events as an alumnus.

Is there something people would be surprised to learn about you?

My major coming into WVU was not public health; I started as a dental hygiene student. After realizing that I wanted to focus on bettering community health, I found the School of Public Health and ever since, have been exactly where I was supposed to be!