This column is for our APHA students, who are both the future of APHA and of public health.
It is the rare fourth grader who says: “When I grow up, I want to be a public health worker.” The journey to working in public health is seldom direct or linear. Your story of how you found your way to public health may have started with realizing that you want to use science to solve practical problems, or that you have a passion for social justice.
Your story of how you found your way into APHA is equally important. For me, it started on Halloween many years ago.
Then a recent MPH graduate, I was giving my first talk at an APHA Annual Meeting, in a ballroom much larger than I expected. As I spoke, the ballroom lights went up, then down, then up. I made a nervous joke about the ghosts of Halloween.
As I continued, the lighting continued to ebb and surge. My talk was a little controversial, so I finally said: “Someone at the funding agency doesn’t want me to give this talk.” At that moment, the room went completely dark. I couldn’t have timed it better if I had tried. It was an auspicious — and memorable — start to my APHA career.
As you live your story and find your way in public health and leadership, I encourage you to keep APHA central in your path.
One of the most important things we can do in public health is nurture a network. APHA gives you access to a vibrant web of meaningful connections. Parts of your network will become mentors or close friends and many of them will grow into your chosen family.
Being part of APHA provides opportunities to take on new roles — in the Student Assembly, in your member groups and in APHA’s state and regional affiliated public health association. Get involved at multiple levels. The starting points for leadership are often small; sometimes we don’t notice that we are starting. This is why all the opportunities that come our way are important. There are so many jobs to do, and no job is too small to count.
Volunteering leads to more opportunities. Good work leads to official leadership. Leadership begets leadership.
As you lead, embrace the core tenets of public health: Seek social justice, rely on scientific evidence and act with compassion. Intentionally build your community, learn from others, show your passion, and give back to your profession over time. APHA is an excellent medium to do each of these things. Stay engaged as you progress through your career.
The future of APHA, and the future of public health, are in your hands. You are taking us to great places. Remember to help others join in along your way. We are stronger together.
The path that you take, through APHA and through your career, will be unique. What is true for each of you is this: It is your turn. You are leaders. In APHA and in public health, I am proud to be among you.
- Copyright The Nation’s Health, American Public Health Association
