Reflection on Applied Practicum Experience
My applied practicum experience has allowed me to bridge the gap between my academic coursework and practical application. Through this experience, I have developed essential skills while meeting the competencies and objectives of my project. This reflection highlights the achievements and learning outcomes of my experience.
Project Objectives
The primary objective of my capstone project was to create a comprehensive summary table as well as create a booklet focused on the city of Chesapeake, Virginia, Buffalow Family & Friends, and food insecurity. To achieve this, I engaged in a range of activities, including:
- Data Collection: I gathered data from local public records, government reports, and consulted with stakeholders on finding credible sources to build a dataset for the summary table. I also sought out and received ethical approval to interview human subjects. I was able to interview and record program participants and volunteers to gain insight into their perspectives. (MPH 7, HPRO 5)
- Qualitative Analysis and Coding: To enhance my analysis, I conducted qualitative research, coding interview transcripts to gain understanding of patterns and insights.
- Building a Booklet: I designed a booklet as one of my practicum deliverables that provided a clear and accessible summary for stakeholders. I utilized and developed my skills in both visual design and communication. (MPH 9, HPRO 4)
- Data Analysis: I analyzed the data to identify trends and patterns in food insecurity and in the program participants’ perspectives of the program.
- Data Visualization: Utilizing Canva, I was able to make the booklet more engaging for stakeholders.
Engaging with Organizational Leadership
Throughout the practicum experience, I engaged with various leaders and learned about the overall organizational structure within Buffalow Family & Friends.
- Learning Organizational Structure: I familiarized myself with the organization’s leaders, volunteer team, and took the time to learn about their history, goals, and the obstacles that they are currently facing in achieving their mission.
- Collaboration with Leadership: In building the booklet, it required me to collaborate and communicate effectively with BFF’s organizational leaders. I gained a lot of insights into their organization’s priorities, programs and strategies. Through this experience, I learned the importance of effective communication and leadership when engaging with different stakeholders. (HRPO 4, HPRO 5)
Developing Key Competencies
As part of my practicum, I developed crucial skills that will benefit my future endeavors. Here’s a summary of these skills:
- Problem-Solving: I encountered barriers in acquiring data and having limited resources. By addressing this challenge, I was able to develop creative problem solving and adaptability skills.
- Communication and Collaboration: By engaging in interviews, creating the booklet, I was able to develop my communication skills. I learned the importance of tailoring your communication to your audience to eliminate any misunderstanding to create the impact that you are striving to create (MPH 21).
- Project Management: I developed my project management skills by managing timelines and coordinating with my preceptors and BFF organizational leadership.
Lessons Learned and Future Applications
This experience has provided valuable lessons that extend beyond meeting the project objectives. It has shown me the significance of data collection, qualitative analysis, the value of effective communication, and the impact of organizational leadership on project success. Overall, the experience has solidified my commitment data-driven and community-focused projects. I look forward to applying these lessons in future professional opportunities and contributing to positive change in communities.
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MPH 7: Assess population needs, assets and capacities that affect communities’ health
Objective: Conduct document review to assess the demographic characteristics, food insecurity level,
health indicators, and health needs in specific census tracks in Chesapeake, Virginia.
MPH 9: Design a population-based policy, program, project or intervention
Objective: Design a toolkit that will summarize the demographics, health needs, and BFF program
activities.
HPRO 4: Construct effective approaches to communicate or disseminate health promotion
content to relevant audiences.
Objective: Create a plain language booklet, written below an 8th grade reading level, that presents
evidence-based research around food insecurity issues and impacts experienced by low-income
populations in Chesapeake.
HPRO 5: Propose inclusion of relevant key stakeholders in a health promotion program.
Objective: Identify BFF community partners from Chesapeake to provide input during toolkit
development. Incorporate input and collaboration from relevant local stakeholders who can help
ensure the content is sound and culturally sensitive.
MPH 21: Perform effectively on interprofessional teams
Objective: Work effectively with BFF leadership, volunteers, and community stakeholders to
effectively accomplish the objectives of this practicum project.