Allison Darling is a second-year Master of Public Health student with an interest in the built environment and its impact on health, safety, and well-being. She recently answered a few questions about her work in this area, her current practicum experience, and her future plans.

Where is your hometown?

Kearney, MO

What is your degree/program of study?

MPH in occupational and environmental health and a Certificate in Transportation Planning

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

I initially chose public health, specifically in the occupational and environmental health department, due to my undergraduate background in environmental studies. I wasn’t entirely familiar with the concept of public health, but the program aligned with my interests well. I have a love for learning, and every bit of content has been relatively new to me, but having a degree that is evidence-based and focused on advocacy and making the world a better place has been a joy to experience and grow into.

You’re also pursuing a Certificate in Urban Transportation Planning. How do those concepts intersect with public health?

Throughout my coursework in the School of Planning and Public Affairs, much of the literature I have been tasked with reading indicates that a shift towards more sustainable and accessible transportation modalities needs to occur. This ties into public health, because we know that a large portion of greenhouse gas emissions comes from the transportation sector, contributing to the current climate crisis. On the other end of this, when transportation barriers exist, this perpetuates challenges to accessing health care, housing issues, and overall safety and well-being, which everyone should be afforded the right to.

Tell us about your current practicum experience and the hands-on learning opportunities it provides.

I have recently started my practicum experience with the Johnson County Affordable Housing Coalition. The coalition has recently received a grant to install solar panels on a handful of Habitat for Humanity homes within Johnson County and to also conduct home energy assessments. Alongside this project, I will be creating a survey and conducting a literature review to assess the barriers to accessing solar panels and green energy within the community and creating educational materials to disseminate at a local level. This is a really wonderful way to make a meaningful impact within the community I have been a part of for the last two years, and it is a lovely intersection between my master’s degree in public health and my certificate in urban planning.

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

As someone who previously attended a small liberal arts college, I fully believe that a large part of an academic experience is what you make of it. Engaging outside of the classroom allows you to be more than just a student, and it provides you with opportunities and connections that you otherwise wouldn’t be able to experience.

What are your career plans post-MPH?

After graduation, I’ll be attending law school, pursuing my JD with a health law concentration.

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

My favorite aspect of my time at the College of Public Health has been my experience within my department. All the faculty, staff, and students are a blast to be around, and everyone is looking out for each other. I have really enjoyed being more than a number on a class roster and making meaningful connections even at such a large university.