Student Ambassador Program

Areas of Interest: Mental health, healthcare access, health equity, public health policy

"The UND Public Health Program is not just a choice but a strategic alignment with my career goals. The program's focus on interdisciplinary learning and practical, policy-driven approaches to public health issues aligns perfectly with my career goal of improving healthcare systems and policies. The Health Management and policy specialization is a testament to this alignment, and the program will provide me with the skills and knowledge necessary to make a meaningful impact. The fully online, asynchronous format at UND is also fundamental, as it allows me to balance my studies with my full-time work and family obligations."

Areas of interest: Mental health, substance use, & harm reduction

"I chose the UND Public Health program because it offers the perfect balance of flexibility and engagement. I was looking for a program that I could complete online while working full time. The program’s flexible structure allows me to have control over my education and schedule. Additionally, the support and connections I’ve developed with faculty and classmates have enhanced my learning experience in ways I didn’t expect from an online program."

Areas of interest: Rural health, maternal health, and disease prevention 

"I chose UND because of the focus on rural health and the opportunities for graduate assistantships. Coming from a medical lab science background, I was excited to see the additional focus on evidence-based practices. The faculty and staff have been very supportive and welcoming to the program."

Areas of interest: Chronic diseases, cancer, maternal & child health, and mental health

"My interest in the UND Public Health Program was piqued by the faculty's diverse research interests and areas of expertise. Faculty members and staff members responded to my inquiries ahead of my admission to the program and extended an enthusiastic welcome throughout the admissions process. I felt at ease venturing into the program due to its welcoming and supportive environment. Furthermore, the Public Health program at UND captivated me due to its comprehensive research-focused curriculum, which prioritized both practical experiences and community-based learning."

Areas of interest: Environmental health, public health policy, health equity

"I have always held a deep respect for the University of North Dakota, and upon learning about the Public Health Program, I saw everything this school had to offer, including the Indigenous Health Specialization.  I felt like this was the perfect environment for me to grow in this field."

Areas of interest: Maternal health, mental health, whole-person health, lifestyle & preventive medicine

"I have known for a very long time that I wanted to go back to school when my children were older.  I like learning and I knew I wanted to do things to make the world a better place.  When Covid hit, my husband was an emergency doctor of the reservation in Shiprock, New Mexico. As part of a cultural training he was sent a video presentation by a UND professor about the effects of Public Health and Indigenous communities.  Since he was at home I watched it with him.  I was hooked.  I loved it! The next semester I enrolled in a few public health classes at a local college. When I learned that UND had the first Indigenous Health program I knew it was where I had to go and I am so grateful for that decision!"