Oluwabunmi Adesina's Experience as a Public Health Student Ambassador

Article written by SPHIS Student Ambassador Oluwabunmi Adesina 

Sometimes, the most meaningful part of graduate school happens outside the classroom. For me, serving as an SPHIS Ambassador has been one of the most rewarding parts of my journey as a doctoral student in the Dept. of Epidemiology and Population Health at the University of Louisville School of Public Health and Information Sciences (SPHIS).

Being a student ambassador has given me the opportunity to support prospective and incoming students, answer questions about SPHIS programs, and share my own experience in a way that helps others feel informed and encouraged. Through this role, I have learned that representation matters. A simple conversation can help a student feel more confident about their decision and more connected to the SPHIS community.

One of the highlights of my experience was attending the Kentucky Public Health Association (KPHA) annual conference. At the conference, I assisted at the SPHIS booth, where I interacted with prospective students and shared meaningful insights about our programs and the broader field of public health. It was a valuable opportunity to represent SPHIS in a professional setting and speak with others about the opportunities the school provides.

The conference was also especially meaningful because I had the opportunity to present my poster titled, “Sex Differences in Clinical Outcomes Among Older Adults Hospitalized with Breakthrough COVID-19 Infection.” Presenting my research in that setting was fulfilling for me. It allowed me to discuss my work with others, receive feedback and better appreciate how graduate research can contribute to larger public health conversations.

Overall, my experience as an ambassador helped me grow my confidence, communication and leadership skills. It has shown me the importance of service, connection and representing my school with purpose. I would encourage other students to apply because being an ambassador is not only a chance to give back, but also an opportunity to grow personally and professionally while making a meaningful impact.