During my internship at the MEZCOPH Academic Health Department, I had the privilege of working with the Pima County Health Department’s Oral Health Program, a highlight of my academic journey. A key part of my role involved working closely with schools to deliver dental sealant education and promote preventive care. This experience sharpened my community outreach and health education skills, allowing me to tailor messages for diverse audiences including children, parents, and teachers. I learned how vital it is to communicate health information in a way that is clear, accessible, and actionable.
Another key highlight of my internship was community engagement and outreach where I collected and organized content for an outreach flyer that showcased the programs and partnerships at the Zuckerman College of Public Health. The impact of this flyer extended beyond an informational piece. It became a tool to connect the college's work with those who could benefit from its resources. By highlighting ongoing projects and emphasizing the importance of collaboration, I was able to contribute to a broader effort to engage communities in addressing critical health issues. This project reinforced for me how powerful effective communication can be in public health, helping bridge the gap between resources and the communities that need them the most.
What made this internship even more impactful was the continued collaboration I developed with the Oral Health Program after my internship ended. I’m grateful to remain involved in long-term health strategies, where my contributions go beyond education to help create lasting, positive change in the community. Reflecting on my experience, I’ve come to realize that public health is most effective when it is deeply rooted in community engagement, with initiatives tailored to the specific needs and goals of those we aim to serve. This internship has deepened my commitment to public health and reinforced my goal of becoming a dentist, where I can use my experience to create lasting impact and improve the health of the communities I serve.
