What inspired or interested you about your field of study? And why did you choose OSU/the college?

As a safety and health professional, I wanted to back up my experience with formal education so I can be a better professional to my coworkers and community.

Oregon State is a leading university in so many disciplines, including public health, which made it a perfect fit for me as an Oregonian. Earning my MPH at Oregon State shows my commitment to a safer and healthier workforce and community.

Tell us about your time at Oregon State and in the college. Is there someone or something who/that helped you be successful?

The program feels like it took forever, and I like I just started at the same time. I didn't know what to expect but I built a strong network of professionals through my classmates. It is amazing how diverse we are. Some students were full-time employees like me, some switched focus after 20 years in their profession, while others were just starting their professional journey.

I was surrounded by intelligent people who challenged me and worked through difficult problems to find solutions. This experience was beyond difficult, but something I'm proud to have accomplished.

What are your post-college dreams/plans?

I feel my career is limitless. You get what you put into things and I'm very motivated to strive for excellence.

My short-term plan is to continue to lead the improvements of our safety and health culture at my company. Longterm, I want to lead transformational changes in occupational safety and health and improve how companies interact with and support public safety.

Anything else you'd like to add?

"I never dreamed about success. I worked for it." - Estée Lauder

This has been my motto throughout my MPH journey.

Life will always provide you a reason of why now is not a good time to go the extra mile. My advice, start now because life will still provide those reasons tomorrow, next year and in 10 years. At least if you start now, you'll work your way through those challenges and come out on top. It's possible if you are dedicated and disciplined. And it helps when you have a cheerleader or two encouraging you along the way too.