Personal Statement

As a mother and a military spouse, my journey in the field of public health has been shaped by my personal experiences and unique aspirations. I have developed a strong passion and determination for my future goals in academia and research, where I believe that my role as an aspiring scholar would enable me to make a meaningful impact on the health and well-being of individuals and communities. One of the most transformative experiences I have had is that of becoming a mother. Through the pleasures and challenges of raising children, I have an increased appreciation for the importance of public health issues where individuals have opportunities to thrive. I have become more aware of the need for accessible healthcare and health education services in addition to interventions that ensure the health and well-being of future generations.

            Being a military spouse has exposed me to different environments and populations which has given me the opportunity to witness the unique health challenges faced by service members and their families. This close connection has further increased my commitment to research and advocacy, especially when seeing how public health programs can positively impact the lives of those who selflessly serve our nation. Additionally, as a mother and student, my children have been such a great inspiration and motivation to pursue a future in research and academia. They have taught me the importance of empathy, resilience, and adaptability – qualities that I consider invaluable in everyday life and for the future of public health.

            As I envision my future in academia and research, I aim to contribute to the expansion of knowledge in the field of public health. I am primarily interested in exploring sectors of mental health and the impact of military service on the well-being of family members. I hope to identify factors that contribute to optimal mental health and explore trauma and resilience within this population. I have an increased interest in exploring effective strategies and interventions for mental health promotion tailored specifically to military members and their dependents. Through my experiences volunteering in military communities as an ombudsman, and an advocate for military families, I have witnessed the profound impact that mental health challenges have on service members and their families. Additionally, I have been immersed in experiences in the unique dynamics of the military family lifestyle which gives me a deeper understanding of the specific needs and concerns of military members and their families. I am driven by a desire to create innovative strategies for promoting resilience while educating myself and others to make a meaningful change to prioritize mental health for service members and their families. I strongly believe that by having a strong support system and resources, it is possible to improve the mental health of many military families.

            My experiences throughout my journey as a student, mother, and military spouse have instilled an overpowering determination to pursue a future in academia and research. I have an increased understanding of the importance of accessible health education resources. Being a member of this community has exposed me to challenges faced by service members and their families. I aspire to contribute to the field of public health, with a focus on mental health and the impact on military members and their dependents. By utilizing my personal experiences in conjunction with my academic background, I am certain I can make a significant contribution to the field of public health, specifically in the scope of mental health practices for service members and their families. I hope to explore innovative strategies to mold a future where mental health is prioritized for service members and their families.