Sabrina Thorn

What does public health mean to you?

To me, public health means working toward implementing ways we can eliminate disparities regarding quality of life in our communities.

Why did you choose to study public health at WVU?

I chose public health at WVU, because I was very interested in the wide range of courses they offered relating to research, business and health policy.

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

France Weaver, Ph.D., has influenced my career goals by allowing her undergraduate students to attend the American College of Healthcare Executives conference. Being exposed to different healthcare administrators and learning about the framework of their facilities as a sophomore was an opportunity I would have never experienced had it not been for her invitation.

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

The Introduction to Social and Behavioral Science and Practice course utilizes service learning as a way for students to gain field placement experience prior to their capstone internship. For my service learning experience, I was appointed Valley Health System, which is an outpatient facility that offers mental, developmental and substance recovery services to various counties all over the state.

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

The WVU School of Public Health possesses a positive and encouraging atmosphere that provides a sense of camaraderie for new students.

What advice would you give to your freshman self?

Your career plan might not go the way you had anticipated, so always keep an open mind for what future opportunities may be presented to you.

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

My experience in a small college, like WVU School of Public Health, has allowed me to establish close relationships with my faculty as well as other students. This has helped me get involved with various research opportunities with graduate students whom I look up to.

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

After completing my degree, I plan to continue as a student in the WVU School of Public Health to pursue a master's degree in healthcare administration through our accelerated program.

Any additional involvement in activities or comments about the program?

This year, I am serving as the vice president for the Student Association of Public Health. SAPH is just one of the many different student organizations within the college open for students to partake in volunteer, social and academic events!