Two years can pass in the blink of an eye, especially for graduate students balancing life, practical learning experiences, other jobs, and personal lives.
With their time at Pitt drawing to a close, several HPM students reflected on their time together, what they’ve learned and what they’ll take with them into the next chapter.
“Some of my favorite memories are the simple, everyday moments,” says Jerusha George (MPH ’25). “Grabbing drinks or food with classmates after class or long exams and lectures, those times to unwind, laugh, and connect with classmates were always something I looked forward to.”
“My favorite memories from my time at Pitt were any time I got to spend with my classmates outside of the classroom,” added Madeline Cherry (MHA ’25), who says even during the summer, friends made sure to make plans to spend time relaxing together.
As they get ready to walk across the stage, receive their diplomas, and shake hands with Dean Lichtveld, the students say they’ve grown – some in ways they never thought possible.
“I’ve grown into a more confident, well-rounded, and empathetic person,” says Josie Rodell (MPH ’25). “I’ve discovered a true passion for community work, and my experiences, both in and out of the classroom, have helped me develop the knowledge and soft skills that will carry me forward.”
MHA graduate Nikita Nagpal says experiences – like her extended residency with the UPMC Department of Medicine - not only sharpened her “hard” skills but made her more confident in her soft skills. “Being in this program has sharply defined for me how I can leverage my social skills into professional success. It was a reminder that I am a people person, and it’s best to lean into your strengths,” she said.
Their paths will vary after leaving, but each student made a decision to continue their education in HPM, and while the reasons are as unique as the individuals behind them, most agree that it’s the people who make up the department make it stand out.
“I think a big part of my choice to come to Pitt was the sense of belonging I found in HPM and the confidence I felt that the faculty would guide and connect me with the people, resources, and experience I needed to be successful in my career,” said Claire Bess (MPH ’25).
“This department is cohesive, top to bottom,” added Nagpal (MHA ’25). “Everyone is working towards the same larger goals. I haven’t met a single person who doesn’t genuinely care about my success. That is such a singular trait and is truly rare to experience.”
“At every step, I have felt truly supported within this department, and I am incredibly grateful for the mentorship and encouragement I’ve received,” added George.
It’s not just the people who stuck out to the graduates when they were still potential students, but the intersection in the field that HPM occupies. “I chose Health Policy and Management because it sits at the intersection of my undergraduate interests in history, anthropology, and politics. HPM stood out to me for its holistic approach to understanding how policy impacts health outcomes – especially within our communities,” said Rodell.
Though they leave with the ability and confidence to be future leaders in the field, students say their studies have also deepened their commitment to public health. “Every professor emphasizes the importance of being able to effectively and efficiently communicate information,” said Cherry. “That will ultimately help as I go into the work force and try to improve the lives of others.”
-Mike Friend
As their days at Pitt Public Health draw to a close, graduates offered this advice for future students:
Nikita Nagpal: Lean entirely into whatever it is you choose to pursue. In life, everything is about what you’re willing to put into it. Dedicate yourself to your path, believe in yourself, and see just how far you’ll go.
Madeline Cherry: We all had different paths to get to where we are now - work together and learn from each other. You never know when you will need to call your classmates and ask for advice.
Claire Bess: Grad school is a different ball game than undergrad; the staff and faculty are here to help you, but you have to tell them what it is you’re looking for. Be open to learning as much as possible
Josie Rodell: Explore everything that Pitt Public Health has to offer. I found many aspects of the school that I loved, including taking classes in other departments, connecting with faculty across disciplines, and pursuing a practicum that gave me the chance to make a real impact in the Pittsburgh community.
Jerusha George: Grad school is more than classes and credentials. It’s a time to define what kind of impact you want to have on public health. Seek out experiences, mentors, and projects that align with your goals, and let that drive you forward.