In celebration of this year’s 2024 SPPH graduating class, we caught up with several graduating students to learn about their time with the School of Public and Population Health.
Delmy Flores is a Master of Public Health in Prevention and Intervention student. She will graduate this May. Read on to learn about her experiences working with community, her work in translation and her advice for potential graduate students!
What brought you to Boise State and the School of Public and Population Health?Â
I aimed to acquire the knowledge and skills required to make a significant contribution to the health of individuals, communities, and the environment, particularly for those who may lack a voice or adequate representation.
What have you enjoyed most about your Master of Public Health (MPH) experience?
What I found most fulfilling about my MPH experience was gaining a deep understanding of the social determinants of health and the essence of public health itself. Recognizing how each of these factors influences both individuals and communities was enlightening. Moreover, I cherished the opportunities to contribute in my own small way, whether it was assisting faculty with their research, providing translations and interpretations in Spanish, or engaging in various initiatives aimed at promoting health through organized and well-informed endeavors.
How has your time in the MPH program changed or shaped the way you view public health and think about your role in your community?
My MPH experience has taught me that even in moments when it may seem like our efforts go unnoticed, every action we take has the potential to make a difference. Whether it’s through small, everyday gestures or larger, more intentional choices, we can continuously work towards bridging the inequality gap among people and advocating for equal opportunities for all. It’s the cumulative effect of these seemingly minor steps that truly counts in the long term, contributing to meaningful and sustainable change.
What advice do you have for undergraduate students contemplating a graduate degree?
My advice to undergraduate students considering a graduate degree is simple: go for it. Don’t let fear hold you back from exploring new opportunities, even if they don’t align perfectly with your current interests. Embrace the chance to expand your horizons, challenge yourself, and discover new passions along the way. Remember, the journey of exploration is just as important as the destination itself.
What are you looking forward to after graduating?
One thing I eagerly anticipate is the opportunity to put into practice all the knowledge and skills I’ve acquired. I’m excited to explore how I can leverage these abilities to improve the health and well-being of individuals, families, priority groups, and the broader community. It’s gratifying to envision making tangible contributions that positively impact the lives of those around me and I’m eager to see the results of my efforts unfold.