Vincent Hornig

Improving health is more than just healthcare; it also includes tackling issues such as social determinants of health and understanding how a disease affects the community as a whole.

What does public health mean to you?

Public health is the study of understanding and improving the health of the community. Improving health is more than just healthcare; it also includes tackling issues such as social determinants of health and understanding how a disease affects the community as a whole.

Why did you choose to study public health at WVU?

I chose to study public health at WVU because I was already an alumnus through my bachelor's degree. I was working at WVU Medicine at the time and wanted to stay in-state and in Morgantown.

Tell us about your internship.

My internship was through the Health Affairs Institute. I worked within the Community Health Needs Assessment team, where I helped code data for analysis. The biggest take-away from the internship was the concerns shared by the community and the issues that are affecting their health.

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

The professors are wonderful and are very approachable. Get to know them and you'll never know what doors can be opened.

What advice would you give to your freshman self?

Learn how to study. Organic chemistry is not like the other courses.

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

My professors have shared many of their experiences working within the field and provided us with numerous opportunities to work within groups to further our teamwork and communication skills.

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

My goal is to continue working at WVU Medicine and to gain experience as a leader within a Healthcare Setting.