Thomas Packebush

Bakersfield, CA
Epidemiology

Ask Thomas about the Oregon State MPH program.

   Ask Thomas

Hobbies, interests, etc

I love being outdoors! Some hobbies include cycling, hiking and camping. Oregon has so much to offer!

Why did you choose OSU for your MPH?

I chose Oregon State because of the great experiences I had here as an undergraduate student. The faculty in the College of Public Health and Human Sciences are extremely knowledgeable and highly supportive of students.

Additionally, Corvallis is such a wonderful city to live in. There are countless opportunities to get involved in the community and explore the great outdoors of Oregon.

What has been your favorite course so far?

My favorite course so far is GIS and Public Health (H 547) with Dr. Hystad. I enjoyed the hands-on experience with ArcGIS Pro, mapping health data and learning how to do some basic spatial analyses.

Most memorable experience in the program?

The people are the most memorable aspect of the program thus far. Moving through the program as a cohort has led to some good friendships!

What advice would you give someone thinking about getting their MPH?

Do it! Public health is so ingrained into our day-to-day lives, and recent years have demonstrated just how important the field is. Explore the different options that an MPH program offers, and find one that best aligns with your interests. Talk with public health professionals in that discipline to see what career opportunities are available.

If you were to recommend the MPH to a close friend, what would you say?

Push yourself outside of your comfort zone! Explore classes from MPH options outside of your own; it all ties together in the grand scope of public health and can expose you to new ideas and people.

Is there anything else that you would like to comment on or say about the OSU MPH?

Go Beavers!