Research In Action

Embarking on my graduate studies at Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health has been an exhilarating journey, enriched by the experiences I gained during my summer internship at the Center for Injury Research and Prevention (CIRP) and the Center for Violence Prevention (CVP) at Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia (CHOP). Currently, I am applying the skills and valuable lessons I acquired from my CHOP internship to my research on maternal child health and nutrition. I also actively participate in a community-academic partnership with a local nonprofit organization in Baltimore dedicated to enhancing the lives of those with chronic illnesses. My time at CHOP fostered invaluable skills and insights that seamlessly intertwine with my academic pursuits, shaping my trajectory toward a purpose-driven career. 

A pivotal aspect of my growth was the remarkable team with whom I had the privilege of working. My team's passion for their work was infectious, creating an environment where curiosity and collaboration thrived. This well-functioning Communications and Outreach team was not just about individual achievements; it was about collective success. 

Working alongside my mentor Christine Norris, communications manager at CIRP, went beyond typical professional development. Her approach of learning by doing deeply resonated with me, instilling in me a proactive attitude toward embracing new challenges. She encouraged me to ask questions and welcomed my research-based suggestions for refining our communication strategies. Her sincerity, open-mindedness, and commitment to lifelong learning were evident in our daily interactions. Additionally, Christine exemplified the importance of humility and a lifelong learning attitude, further enriching the depth of my experience. 

Ever-Evolving Communications Landscape 

During my time at CIRP, I had the privilege of cultivating essential soft skills vital in professional settings. My daily engagements in SEO and data analysis for communication strategies nurtured my critical thinking and problem-solving capabilities. Tackling the intricacies of a half-year digital media analytics report, complicated by data migration challenges, demanded not only technical proficiency, but also a sharp problem-solving mindset. 

The ever-evolving landscape of digital communications and social media underscored the significance of flexibility, as changes in algorithm trends necessitated adaptability. These soft skills form the foundation of my capacity to navigate complexities in public health research, enabling me to devise creative solutions and to approach every task innovatively. 

Moreover, the impactful research at CIRP, particularly in transportation equity, deeply influenced my academic pursuits. This specific focus ignited a passion for community-based participatory research and health equity, shaping my course selections and research interests. As I weave together my learnings from CIRP with my academic journey, I am committed to translating research into action and addressing health disparities through innovative and community-driven approaches. 

Translating Research into Action 

Looking back, my summer internship at CIRP was an extraordinary journey of growth, both professionally and personally. The cohesive team, passionate mentors, and emphasis on soft skills collectively contributed to my development. 

As I navigate the next phase of my academic journey fueled by a commitment to equity, innovation, and positive change, I carry with me the experiences and skills gained at CHOP. I extend heartfelt gratitude to everyone at CIRP and CVP for this transformative experience, and I eagerly anticipate a future where I can continue to learn, contribute, and make a lasting impact on public health.