Q: Why did you choose Brockport?
I chose Brockport because of its welcoming community. The support, collaborative spirit, and leadership opportunities here have been instrumental in helping me grow as both a student and a community advocate. Brockport has not only prepared me academically, but it has also fostered a deep sense of responsibility and a passion for public service.
“Brockport has not only prepared me academically, but has also fostered a deep sense of responsibility and enthusiasm for public service.”
Nicole Parkison
I originally enrolled at Brockport as a Nursing Intent major but transitioned to Public Health during my sophomore year. Since then, the University has provided me with invaluable academic and professional experiences that have prepared me for a fulfilling career in the field.
Q: What is your most significant academic accomplishment?
One of my proudest academic accomplishments has been my internship with Ontario County Public Health, where I had the opportunity to support the Community Health Improvement Plan by developing a facilitator guide and delivering training to members of community organizations. This project required me to synthesize academic research with practical application, including designing effective communication tools, collecting and analyzing qualitative data from focus groups, and ensuring that community voices were accurately represented.
The hands-on experience not only allowed me to see the real-world impact of evidence-based public health strategies but also sharpened my skills in project management, collaboration, and data analysis.
Q: How has your internship experience influenced your future goals?
The internship solidified my commitment to pursuing a career that bridges research and community-based public health practice. Exposure to direct community engagement and the practical challenges of implementing public health initiatives reinforced my passion for strategic planning and evidence-based interventions.
I now envision a future in which I continue to play a pivotal role in developing programs and policies that drive meaningful change, guiding communities toward informed health decisions, and ultimately taking on leadership roles that shape public health strategies on a broader scale.
Q: Can you describe your responsibilities as a Graduate Assistant?
I plan and execute departmental events, assist with recruitment and retention initiatives, and contribute to compliance efforts related to CEPH (Council on Education for Public Health) accreditation standards, which ensure that public health programs maintain high standards in curriculum, student outcomes, and continuous improvement. I have had the opportunity to help organize and execute several departmental events, including the First Annual Careers in Public Health Conference. The event welcomed 120 high school students and provided a dynamic introduction to careers in public health, creating an inspiring experience for both participants and professionals.
This position provides me with invaluable insights into academic administration and further enhances my ability to translate public health principles into effective practice.
Q: Advice to future students interested in Public Health?
Actively seek hands-on experiences through internships, research, and leadership roles.
“Public health is a dynamic and interdisciplinary field that benefits greatly from real-world applications. It’s about making a tangible difference in people’s lives.”
Nicole Parkison
Public health is a dynamic and interdisciplinary field that benefits greatly from real-world applications. Developing skills in communication, data analysis, and program development is essential — and best achieved outside the classroom as well. Public health is not just about understanding data and research; it’s about making a tangible difference in people’s lives. I encourage future students to get involved with community projects, seek out mentorship, and maintain a balance between academic rigor and real-world application.
Also, I recommend joining student organizations like the Public Health Club to network with peers and professionals and contribute to impactful health initiatives.
Q: Any other extracurricular activities on campus that you’re a part of?
Yes, I have been actively involved in Phi Sigma Sigma, Women’s Club Rugby, and the Public Health Club, all of which have helped me develop valuable leadership, teamwork, and communication skills.
Additionally, I have had the opportunity to participate in Assistant Professor Dr. Julie Dearing’s research project, Painted Play Spaces, which allowed me to contribute to enhancing physical activity environments in local elementary schools. This project has been both professionally rewarding and personally fulfilling.