Yvonne Shaw

Why did you choose to study public health at WVU?

I've been looking to go back to school and have been interested in public health but haven't seen the right program for me. When I came across the online master's in population health at the WVU School of Public Health, I was really excited to find something that called out to me and that was possible to complete while working full-time with two children in elementary school.

Tell us about your hands-on experiences. 

Before beginning the master's program, I became involved in community groups-- organizing vaccination drives, blood drives, a mental health panel discussion and working to support the resettlement of a refugee newcomer. These activities have all taken place here in Morgantown.

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

I just completed my second semester, and all the professors and my adviser have been great. They have been willingly available and able to meet to go over questions and have provided great guidance along the way.

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

I work at the WVU Cancer Institute Clinical Research Unit and hope to be able to use the knowledge I'm gaining toward projects within the Cancer Institute, helping our patient population access care and clinical trials that they need and deserve.

I'd also like to be more involved in community and state work related to infant and maternal mortality rates.

What is your favorite book?

I really enjoy reading so it's hard to choose a favorite, but some good books I've read recently include "The Reading List: A Novel" by Sara Nisha Adams, "Caste: The Origins of Our Discontents" by Isabel Wilkerson and "Nothing to See Here" by Kevin Wilson.

What is your favorite TV series and/or movie?

I think Sharon Horgan is brilliant and hilarious, so I really liked "Bad Sisters" and "Catastrophe."

What is your favorite place you’ve visited?

I've had the opportunity to travel a fair bit, but as the U.K. is my home and it will always have a piece of my heart, it will have to be listed as my favorite place.

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

Chestnut Brew Hall

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

I love being outside with my family--so hiking, cross country skiing, traveling and gardening.