Putting Wellness PHirst: Aesha Patel on Healthcare, Public Health, and Community Impact

Rutgers School of Public Health Wellness PHirst Ambassador Aesha Patel shares how her background in healthcare informs her approach to community wellness and her work in public health

At the Rutgers School of Public Health, the Office for Student Experiences, Public Health Practice, and Alumni Affairs advances the school’s commitment to cultivating a culture of health and well-being through its various initiatives, including the Wellness PHirst program. Designed to integrate wellness practices into every aspect of the school community – among students, faculty, and staff – the program promotes the Dimensions of Wellness: cultural, social-emotional, occupational, intellectual, creative, environmental, physical, spiritual, and financial.

As part of this effort, the Wellness PHirst Ambassadors play an essential role in bringing these dimensions to life. These student leaders mentor their peers, promote wellness resources, and co-facilitate programs and initiatives that enhance engagement, connection, and belonging across the Rutgers School of Public Health community.

Among them is Aesha Patel, a Master of Public Health (MPH) student in Global Public Health. Here, she shares her path from healthcare to public health, why she chose to be a Wellness PHirst Ambassador, and her life outside of the classroom.

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Tell us a bit about yourself and your background.

I am currently a Master of Public Health student concentrating in Global Public Health at the Rutgers School of Public Health, with a strong interest in improving community health and reducing health disparities. My interest in public health grew from my background in healthcare, where I saw how social and economic factors influence people’s health and access to care. Those experiences made me curious about the bigger picture of health beyond the hospital setting.

I also enjoy working on projects that look at how public health policies and programs can improve outcomes for vulnerable populations. Overall, I am passionate about applying public health knowledge to make a positive, practical impact on communities.

Why did you choose to become a Wellness PHirst Ambassador?

My interest in public health grew from my background in healthcare, where I saw how social and economic factors influence people’s health and access to care... I am passionate about applying public health knowledge to make a positive, practical impact on communities.

Aesha Patel

Master of Public Health Student  and Wellness PHirst Ambassador

I chose to become a Wellness PHirst Ambassador because I believe student wellness is an important part of overall public health. Graduate school can be demanding, and I think it is important to create spaces where students feel supported and encouraged to take care of their mental and physical health. This role allows me to help promote wellness resources and encourage healthy habits within the Rutgers community. 

As a public health student, it also gives me a chance to apply what I learn in the classroom to real-life initiatives that support student well-being.

What do you enjoy doing outside of your academic and professional life?

Outside of public health, I enjoy activities that help me relax and stay creative. I love playing Garba (Indian-Gujarati Culture folk dance). I like travelling to places and capturing memories. Dancing is another activity I enjoy because it helps me stay active and relieve stress. I also like drawing, which gives me a creative outlet and a way to express ideas visually.