Meet Isaiah Rodriguez-Jimenez, one of the first students at WSU to major in the College of Veterinary Medicine’s new public health undergraduate degree program.
From Mount Vernon, Washington, and a graduate of Burlington-Edison High School, Isaiah is a first-year student at WSU. As a public health major, he plans to pursue the infectious disease specialization track that focuses on population health, health systems, methods, biostatistics, health communications, environmental health administration, and community health development.
Why did you choose to major in public health?
I’m choosing public health because I want a degree that allows me to assist others and help spread knowledge that could benefit everyone.
What interests you most about the field of public health?
What I’m most interested in about public health is how broad the field is. You are able to learn about topics ranging from environmental science to epidemiology and apply that knowledge into forming policies.
Are there any particular issues or challenges in public health that you are passionate about addressing?
One issue I’m interested in is access to knowledge. Everyone should have access to free education to make informed choices regarding their health and well-being. Whether it be over diet or information about medicine, everyone should know what is best for them and not be left in the dark.
What are your career goals or aspirations with this degree?
I aim for a career that leaves me feeling accomplished from helping others and my community back home.