Tristan Milarch is a first-year PhD student in the Department of Epidemiology. He recently answered a few questions about his interest in public health and the importance of student engagement outside of the classroom.

Where is your hometown?

Hudsonville, Michigan

What is your degree/program of study?

PhD in epidemiology

Why did you choose to study public health? What about it interests you?

After graduating with undergraduate degrees in biology (pre-med) and business administration, my initial plan was to pursue a Master of Public Health (MPH) degree as a launching pad into medical school to become a physician. However, by the end of my first semester within the MPH program at Cornell University (NY), I realized I had a natural niche within public health with the potential to explore greater educational pursuits such as a PhD. I quickly found epidemiology and the study of disease movement/effects within a human population to be fascinating. It is the all-encompassing nature of public health that fascinates me every day as there are so many factors and attributes that could lead to increased positive health outcomes and prolonging life within our own communities.

You are also involved with the ‘Here to Help’ organization. Tell us a little about that group and why you think its work is important.

At ‘Here to Help’ we are ultimately aiming to promote mental health and well-being across our College of Public Health community. Student engagement is a massive component to achieving this. Throughout the year, ‘Here to Help’ conducts well-being events to engage students with one another and allow for time to unwind and decompress during a busy semester. More personally, I have had a great supporting cast of individuals to help me through mental health struggles of the past. Now, being in a much better place in life myself, I feel deeply compelled to support others in the same light that others have supported me through difficult times.

You currently serve as a graduate student ambassador and are new member of the ‘Plugged in to Public Health’ podcast team. What do you hope to learn from those experiences?

I hope to learn how to further my communication skills! As a public health professional, the ability to communicate effectively is essential. However, it is just as, if not more, important to listen to those who are at the table with you. Having the opportunity to serve as a student ambassador and on the podcast team will provide greater potential for me to hone these skills and learn to be a more effective public health leader.

Why do you think it is important for students to engage with on-campus and community organizations outside of the classroom?

Not only is it important, it’s essential! I encourage all students to take every opportunity to engage with the great community we have here. Not only does it provide great social fulfillment, but I also have found that I usually acquire new knowledge as well. I highly recommend engaging with the broader community while you are here to get the most out of your individual experience.

What are your career plans post-PhD?

After graduating with a PhD, I aim to teach epidemiology and related topics in a collegiate setting. Working as a TA, I have found a natural knack for teaching, specifically in the undergraduate and master’s program settings. It is personally very satisfying to support these students during these essential years of growth in their life.

What have you enjoyed most about your time at the College of Public Health?

Honestly, it really has been the simple, little things I have enjoyed day-to-day in the CPH. Whether it involves getting to know others, helping students with course materials as a TA, or aiding faculty/staff in their research process, I enjoy being in the CPH! As a PhD student I plan to be here for some time and feel that I have already found a home here at the University of Iowa College of Public Health.