Naif Alessa
Specialization: Health Behavior and Health Promotion
Agency Name: Waey Association for Community Health
Agency Location: Riyadh, Saudia Arabia (hybrid)
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.
“Presenting on anxiety in Saudi Arabia was profoundly rewarding. It was a vivid reminder of the tangible difference public health education can make in people’s lives.”
Question:
What was your applied practice experience like?
I have worked on several projects in the past few years, covering significant public health and mental health challenges in Saudi Arabia and the Arab world. Completing my APE with the Waey Association for Community Health allowed me to continue this crucial work.
I conducted comprehensive reviews and analyses of published reports on mental health to develop an educational presentation on anxiety in Saudi Arabia, “Understanding Anxiety: Aiming for a Better Quality of Life,” enhancing public understanding and knowledge.
I also developed and delivered audience-appropriate content through an oral presentation and podcast, catering to the educational needs of non-academic audiences. The process of crafting a podcast script on mental toughness wasn’t just about writing; it was about weaving together culture, knowledge and empathy into a narrative that could truly resonate with listeners.
Overall, I recognized the critical role of health literacy in the creation and evaluation of health education materials. Translating our health education materials from Arabic to English doubled my learning and reinforced my commitment to bridging health literacy gaps wherever they exist.
Question:
What advice would you give other students going through their APEs now?
Embrace every task with curiosity and the intent to learn. Your APE is not just a requirement, but a rich ground for growth. Network, ask questions and seek feedback. These interactions will shape your public health perspective as much as your projects do. And always remember, the impact you aspire to make starts with the dedication you show today.