Rutgers School of Public Health Wellness PHirst Ambassador Brianna Vo shares how her interests in medicine, mental health, and holistic, community-focused care shape her journey 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 Brianna Vo, a Master of Public Health (MPH) student in Epidemiology. Here, she shares her path from clinical care to public health, why she chose to become a Wellness PHirst Ambassador, and what brings her joy beyond the classroom.
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Tell us a bit about yourself and your background.
I have always been interested in medicine and working in this field. With the aspiration of applying to medical school after graduating from my undergraduate studies, I decided to take a gap year to focus on my mental health, as getting through college was mentally draining. During this gap year, I aimed to engage more hands-on in medicine and began working as a Patient Care Nursing Assistant (PCNA) at the Cleveland Clinic.
During my time there, I was exposed to various aspects of healthcare, and one area that particularly captured my interest was the development of protocols for prevention and safety. This experience sparked my interest in Public Health, as a coworker highlighted.
Currently, I am pursuing a Master of Public Health degree at Rutgers School of Public Health with a concentration in Epidemiology. Throughout my studies, my primary focus has been on oncology, mental health, and holistic care. However, this program has also broadened my interest in providing care to underserved communities, particularly the LGBTQ+ community. While interning at the school’s Center for Health, Identity, Behavior & Prevention Studies (CHIBPS), I have conducted extensive research on healthcare engagement among the LGBTQ+ community and the impact of government entities on health disparities within this group.
Why did you choose to become a Wellness PHirst Ambassador?
I chose to be a Wellness PHirst Ambassador because I truly care about mental health and its importance in our lives. This program emphasizes that wellness is a holistic experience that incorporates emotional, financial, spiritual, social, environmental, physical, intellectual, and occupational aspects. Having faced various challenges in my life, I have become deeply aware of my mental health.
Confronting fears and pushing my boundaries leads to personal growth. For example, when I moved to New Jersey from Ohio, not knowing anyone, or traveled abroad for my studies, I embraced new cultures, honed my language skills, and participated in vibrant cultural events. As a first-generation student, I also navigated the complexities of pursuing an education and financing my journey without the benefit of my family's prior experience. I strive to be a positive role model for my siblings, hoping they see me as someone who understands the struggles they may face. I want them to know they are not alone, just as I once felt during my own journey.
Throughout my studies, my primary focus has been on oncology, mental health, and holistic care... [This program] has broadened my perspective, teaching me that many solutions can exist for a single problem and that wellness means different things to different people.
Brianna Vo
Master of Public Health Student and Wellness PHirst Ambassador
My belief in holistic approaches to wellness stems from the idea that these methods can foster long-term recovery rather than merely providing short-term fixes. This program has allowed me to support others in their own journeys. It has broadened my perspective, teaching me that many solutions can exist for a single problem and that wellness means different things to different people. Through this experience, I’ve learned to engage in meaningful conversations and build genuine connections. This not only helps me understand others better but also allows me to appreciate their diverse backgrounds.
Additionally, obtaining my certificate in Mental Health First Aid has equipped me with valuable skills to assess and respond appropriately to mental health crises. I am grateful for the opportunity to combine my passion for wellness with my desire to help others on their healing journeys.
What do you enjoy doing outside of your academic and professional life?
Outside of public health, I enjoy various hobbies that help me stay active and clear my mind. I love trying new workout classes and sometimes randomly decide to start running just for fun. As a social butterfly, I thrive on spending time with friends and exploring new experiences, whether it's trying different types of food or sampling various coffees and matcha drinks.
While I enjoy being social, I also appreciate my alone time. This often involves reading self-help books, cleaning, and cooking. One book that was life-changing for me is “Single On Purpose” by John Kim. I recommend it to everyone, whether you're single or not.
