We're excited to continue our series highlighting the 2024–2025 Wellness PHirst Ambassadors!
Each ambassador is making a meaningful impact by promoting wellness and supporting their peers. In our last feature, we introduced Fatima, sharing her dedication to improving environmental and global public health.
In our next spotlight, we sat down with Julianna Garvey, an Accelerated Bachelor of Science (BS)-Master of Public Health (MPH) student with a concentration in Social and Behavioral Health Sciences, to discuss her public health journey and the significance of promoting and leading with wellness PHirst.
Why did you decide to pursue a degree and career in public health?
I entered my undergraduate education as a Public Health major with the intention of going the pre-medical route. After completing a few public health courses, I quickly realized that public health was my true passion, and I decided to make it my main focus for my undergraduate and graduate studies.
My research interests lie primarily in substance use disorder prevention, mental health, and the social determinants of health.
Why did you decide to apply to be a Wellness PHirst Ambassador? How do you plan on connecting with your peers through this role?
I am incredibly passionate about health and wellness, so when I was presented with the opportunity to become a Wellness PHirst Ambassador with the School of Public Health, I was ecstatic.
This experience has motivated me to become a better leader within my community and to help improve wellness opportunities for my fellow peers.
Public health is all about approaching health holistically, so to be a Wellness PHirst Ambassador means to address all areas of wellness in the student population and ensure that each student is connected with their overall wellbeing.
What are your interests outside of public health?
I am a huge baseball fan, or I should say “New York Mets” fan instead. Fun fact: I’ve been to all 30 Major League Baseball stadiums, as of this year actually, when I wrapped up my journey in Seattle this past August.
I also love reading, travel, photography, writing letters to my pen pals all over the world, and spending time with my loved ones trying new things!
