For Kiran Snow, healthcare goes beyond the walls of a hospital. As a physician training to be a neonatologist, she has seen firsthand how food insecurity, lack of access to healthcare, and environmental factors affect patient outcomes. That’s why she chose to pursue a Master of Public Health (MPH) degree at the IU Richard M. Fairbanks School of Public Health; to advocate for systemic change that improves maternal and child health.
“I saw how social determinants of health—like where people live, their access to affordable food, and even outdoor play areas—had a huge impact on their well-being,” Kiran explains. “Some families couldn’t get regular checkups or afford medications, so they would get sicker before seeking care. I wanted to address these issues on a population level and help people stay healthy, not just treat them once they’re sick.”
Kiran was drawn to IU’s MPH program because of its strong emphasis on interprofessional collaboration and evidence-based solutions.
“The faculty at IU are incredibly experienced and bring real-world knowledge to the classroom,” she says. “They help make our studies relevant to today’s public health challenges.”
As she plans her upcoming internship, Kiran is intentional about selecting courses and experiences that align with her long-term goals. Her advice to other students? “Be strategic about your electives and internship. Public health is a broad field, so make sure your coursework reflects your career aspirations.”
After graduation, Kiran hopes to combine her medical training with public health advocacy, working alongside elected officials to implement policies that improve food security and maternal and child health.
“At the end of the day, public health is about making sure everyone has the opportunity to lead a happier, healthier life,” she says. “That’s what I hope to achieve.”
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