Anna Walker
Specialization: Epidemiology
Agency Name: Licking County Health Department
Agency Location: Newark, Ohio
Every year, Public Health Buckeyes take what they learn in their Master of Public Health programs and put it to practice. These applied practice experiences help students meet educational and professional development goals.
“Working with the Environmental Health Division at LCHD showed me how my interests in infectious disease and environmental epidemiology overlap frequently and are essential areas of focus in supporting the health of a community.”
Question
Tell us about your applied practice experience.
I trapped mosquitoes, identified by species and tested specimens for West Nile Virus. I then analyzed the data from collected mosquitoes and made recommendations to municipalities for appropriate management of mosquito populations. I also investigated complaints of high mosquito activity and applied insecticide to manage densely populated areas. I collected water samples from private residential wells for contaminant testing including bacteria, arsenic, lead, nitrates and nitrites. I also inspected illicit discharge locations for signs of contaminated water and other pollutants and reported on findings.
Question
What advice would you give students completing their APE now?
Ask to shadow other members of the organization you are working with. I highly encourage you to explore departments or teams outside of the one you are working so that you can get a more holistic understanding of how the organization functions and explore other potential career paths.