The Belonging Fellowship Scholarship enabled Annabeth Mathews to pursue meaningful opportunities in public health, where she found her purpose in connecting with others. Whether promoting wellness or educating on sexual misconduct, Mathews uses public health to empower communities.
During her time at BYU, Annabeth Mathews was able to find her purpose through connecting with others. Whether she was connecting others to knowledge or to resources, Mathews has had countless opportunities through public health to create impactful changes.
When she first started at BYU, Mathews pursued nursing because she was interested in the medical world. However, after realizing the lack of connection to the patients, she knew she had to find a different path.
“I loved the science and STEM part of nursing, but I also loved what public health offered in learning about people and why they do what they do.”
After landing in public health, she completed various experiences that would later propel her into the field.
At UVU, Mathews worked with the wellness program to promote healthy choices. Whether she was handing out healthy snacks or teaching courses on healthy relationships, Mathews worked to implement public health into students' lives.
Mathews also pursued an internship for the Salt Lake City Mosquito Abatement District, where she educated communities on the dangers of mosquito diseases.
“I feel like BYU equipped me to become a competitive applicant once I graduated,” Mathews said.
Now, as a graduate from BYU’s public health program, she works at Utah State University as a prevention specialist in the Title IX office. In her position, Mathews educates students on sexual misconduct and how to report it.
Through all these opportunities, Mathews notes that connecting others is what inspires her to make impactful changes in public health.
“I think that connection is my purpose,” she said. “What I love the most is sharing my knowledge with others.”