Professors and Recruiters Present at MPH Info Session

On Friday, November 18, BYU Professors and U of U recruiters spoke to future Master of Public Health students about obtaining a graduate degree.

Dr. Ali Crandall spoke about the value of an MPH degree, emphasizing the importance it had in her personal career. "An MPH degree unlocks doors for you in public health that you couldn't otherwise open," said Dr. Crandall. “If you want to work in public health, it is the only way to go.”

Dr. Gordon Lindsay, director of BYU’s MPH program, encouraged students to seek a different type of educational experience for their graduate work. “BYU is highly acclaimed,” he said. “Here, we have a great MPH program. But our undergraduates should go elsewhere. You can seek a more specialized institution and have extra valuable experiences as you move on.” He joked, “There’s a reason why it’s illegal to marry your cousin—in the same way, you should seek a different university for your continued education.”

With that idea in mind, University of Utah recruiter Jill Stephenson shared an overview of U of U’s graduate program. “U of U is a smart graduate school choice for students who seek a different experience from BYU but still want to live in Utah,” said Stephenson. Additionally, U of U has an Asia campus, located in South Korea, where students can attend and get real-life graduate education abroad.

BYU professors also gave advice to students about graduate school application.

When considering an MPH school, initiative is key. "Email some of the faculty," said Dr. Crandall. “You may feel uncomfortable, but do it anyway. They can answer your questions and give you clarity."

Students should also consider the area where they want to live in the future as well, said Dr. Lori Andersen. You may receive job offers in that community.

Dr. Evan Thacker advised students, “Don't limit yourself. You can expand into other universities, other parts of the country, and other tracks and focuses and degrees.”

Overall, said Dr. Lindsay, students should seek a graduate degree for better job opportunities, better pay, intellectual stimulation, and ultimately, more opportunities to serve.