Shelby McCloskey

For prospective students who aren’t familiar with this field, how do you define public health? What does it mean to you?

I would define public health as preventing not only diseases, but disparities. To me, public health is holistic and focuses on so many aspects of a person's well-being, which allows us to maximize how we can help communities.

I chose WVU for my education because my brother came here. Our parents didn’t go to college, and I was a little lost when it came to looking for a school. WVU was the only school I toured and I felt a sense of home.

Have any of your professors influenced you in a unique way?

While I think all the faculty have had a tremendous impact on me while at WVU, Dr. Davidov has definitely left her mark. She has been someone who has helped me with academic, personal, and professional development for nearly three years. She has opened my eyes to so many opportunities and always makes sure her students are recognized for their hard work. I really don’t think I can properly put into words how incredible Dr. Davidov is.

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

I think an interesting experience I have had at WVU was having a sibling here. He would be busy with his studies, but my freshman year we would always make sure to get together to take advantage of my dining plan. We would meet each other's friends and talk about anything and everything, and I really cherish those times.

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?

Living through a pandemic has truly been a once-in-a-lifetime experience as a public health student. I was able to see concepts I was learning in real time, for better or for worse. I think everyone has had to learn to adapt and be flexible, and we definitely had to learn how to approach a lot of things in a different way. At times it was frustrating, but I think we all came out stronger.

Tell us about your capstone/field placement experience.

My capstone was at the West Virginia Coalition Against Domestic Violence. I had such an enriching experience at the coalition. I was able to participate in so many activities, ranging from policies to research to helping create a webinar for advocates. I was really able to broaden my horizons and really immerse myself into what my role looks like as an advocate for survivors.

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

After graduation, I want to continue working in gender-based violence prevention. This has been something I have been passionate about for years, and I feel is often overlooked. My ultimate goal is to help hospitals with forensic nursing programs, so they could be better equipped to handle violence-based cases in a trauma-informed manner.

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

To prospective students looking at WVU and/or our public health program, I highly encourage you to apply and come here. This place has become home for my family and I, and I have met the best people ever. The faculty in public health are the most caring people I have encountered and they really want to see you succeed. No matter how niche you think your interest is, I promise we have a faculty member that has similar interests and will mentor you like Dr. Davidov has done for me.

What advice would you give to your freshman self?

Some advice for my freshman year self is that it will all work out. If it doesn't? It wasn't meant to be and try something else. This is hard, but you'll save yourself a lot of tears in the end.

What will you always remember from your time at WVU?

I will always remember library marathons with my friends around finals. We would rent out a library room for a day and just bring in takeout and snacks and help each other out when needed. It became a bit of a tradition between this little trio I’m in, and as nerdy as it sounds, those are some of my most cherished memories here.

What do you think is the best tradition at WVU?

Hands down the best tradition is singing “Country Roads” after a Mountaineer win. There is no other tradition like it.

Why should someone choose WVU to study public health?

WVU is the perfect place to study Public Health. As I said, there will definitely be a professor to guide you and your interest, whether that is in research or helping you find a job or internship.WVU itself is located in such a unique region with so many opportunities to learn about and help rural populations. There are so many amazing local stakeholders to connect with, Ruby Memorial is an amazing place to work at, and the opportunities are really endless here. No matter your interest, you will thrive here in public health!

What are you looking forward to most after graduation?

After graduation, I'm really looking forward to continuing my education in both an academic and real world setting. I would love to get a Master’s in public health or social work, as I think both could be very helpful for my career. I also just look forward to applying this knowledge to my job, wherever I end up, and learn more from a hands-on approach. I also look forward to traveling and would love to move to Colorado!

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

Something I think a lot of people would be surprised to learn is that the only jewelry I like is earrings. I have tried to get into everything else, but I only like earrings. It's why I have 8 piercings and plan on having more!