Megan Townsend

What does public health mean to you?

To me, public health is the act of keeping the population healthy and out of the hospital. That population could be many different things besides the population of one place as a whole. Public health is making sure people have what they need to survive: healthy food, clean water, medication, housing and social needs being met.

Why did you choose to study public health at WVU?

I chose to study at the WVU School of Public Health, because it is the place I felt like I could make the biggest impact. Being a smaller school, you really get that one-on-one time with faculty, and staff and professors get to know you and WANT to know you. Everyone at the School of Public Health will help you in any way they can so that you can be as successful as you aim to be!

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

Dr. France Weaver is always pushing me outside of my comfort zone and encouraging me to be the best version of myself. She reassures me that sometimes it is okay to fail, but make sure to not let it keep me from doing other things. Bradlee Cain has been the best staff adviser to work with on Student Association of Public Health. She is always happy to have me pop in her office just for a chat and is more than happy to give advice when I need it.

Tell us about your field placement experience or other hands-on experience.

I am nearly done with my summer administrative residency at UPMC Children’s Hospital of Pittsburgh! I am working with the director of patient care business operations and capacity management on many different projects, such as dashboards and analyzing large raw data sets. I am also attending meetings with the senior leaders of the hospital. I am able to learn how a hospital operates on a day-to-day basis and see how they strive to achieve their mission, vision and values every day.  

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

It is the most welcoming place I’ve been on campus! Everyone is always willing to help in any way they can. Make sure you get involved with the Student Association of Public Health. It’s a great way to make friends at the beginning of your freshman year.  

What advice would you give to your freshman self?  

Don't be afraid! Join clubs, make friends and ask questions. I used to be so scared to ask questions in class or even email a professor outside of class with a question. Now, entering my last year of the MHA program, I know that the professors want you to ask questions and email them—that’s what they’re there for!  

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 helped prepare me for the future in more ways than I can count. I have come out of my shell, learned so much about public health and health administration that I feel prepared for the future. Participating in interview workshops, getting my resume looked at and building relationships has prepared me for the future.

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

I plan to enter the workforce as a service line manager or supervisor upon graduation in May.

What is your favorite book?

"Educated" by Tara Westover

What is your favorite TV series and/or movie?

"Modern Family"

What is your favorite music genre and/or artist?

Harry Styles

What is your favorite place you've visited?

Cabo San Lucas! I got to go with all of my friends and we had the greatest time.

What is your favorite local restaurant and/or hangout spot?

Bubble Fish

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

Read and spend time with friends and family!