Master of Poooblic Health

I just got an email from a cohort member/friend from my Master of Public Health program. It was sent out to our whole group, asking for updates on what we’ve been up to since graduation 2005. Pretty sure I’m the only one NOT out saving the world, preventing global pandemics, earning more letters behind my name, etc. And…. I’ve been just a lil insecure about that whole issue for the past few years. So I considered not responding to the email. I considered just writing, “I have twins – whaddya THINK I’m up to?!” But instead I entertained myself for a few minutes writing this out:

You want a professional update? Here ya go:

~I have spent the past three years heavily engrossed in direct contact fieldwork.

~My business travels are primarily domestic. However I frequently observe global activities related to my line of work via webinars directed by my colleague, Senorita Dora Explorer.

~I am a volunteer for an NGO, thus the salary is dismal. However, the fringe benefits are unparalleled. Thankfully I have a companion funding source exceeding our expenditure needs. One of my roles within this organization is to plan group conference presentations every Monday night, primarily on the spiritual dimension of health.

~I recently completed a health promotion project involving sanitation and proper waste removal training.

~I frequently have the difficult task of designing and implementing enforcement procedures of domestic policy. My primary objective is to create a state of complete physical, social, and mental well-being, not merely the absence of disease or infirmity.

~Networking with colleagues is engaged in frequently via Facebook to discuss comparisons of determinants of health in juvenile populations.

~Much of my practice-based work has been in the area of maternal-child nutrition, with a strong emphasis on lactation. The health benefits of extended breastfeeding is an area I am currently researching.

–Tomorrow I will be doing my part to control preventable disease by overseeing the administration of primary immunizations.

~My target population is Caucasian twin infants and female preschoolers, residing in Cedar City, with the surname McKell. As this is a very narrow target population, only three individuals are in my study at present, though this number may increase if funding becomes available. In the next decade or so, I see myself pursuing a highly precarious field of research – adolescent development.

~My work is regularly published. At a minimum, weekly – but often on a daily basis. I’ve elected to have my work featured solely online, as a printed journal would be subject to damage by crayons. My publications can be accessed at http://www.bcmckell.blogspot.com/ . Much of it is epidemiologic in nature – cuz I’m peppi for epi.

~I have enhanced my MPH degree with additional education and training in diverse and seemingly non-related disciples, including culinary art, accounting, interior design, cosmetology, education, psychology, and acute medical care. My level of competency in these branches is highly questionable.

However, I am eternally grateful for my graduate schooling at BYU with my extraordinary cohort, as it taught me the principal skill I utilize in my daily responsibilities: MULTI-TASKING!

Chelsea is one amazing lady! Mom of 3 (two of which are twins), enough energy to power a small country, friend to all, and never afraid to try something new. You can find Chelsea and more of her witty writing about her slice of life at http://www.bcmckell.blogspot.com. I seriously never cease to be amazed by her!