A Master's In Public Health Helps Community Advocate Serve Dallas
By collaborating with hospital staff and community partners, Vidya Ayyr works to identify public health needs and establishes outreach programs to support hospital efforts and promote the health of Dallas County residents at Parkland Health and Hospital System. She holds an undergraduate degree in Business Administration and Marketing from the University of Texas at Dallas, and a Master's in Public Health from the University of Texas Health Science Center.
Why did you pursue a master's degree?
"My parents instilled in me the importance of giving back to my community. I have always had a true passion for health care. I was able to connect the business aspect of public health and my interests in science. I set off to discover the path required to achieve my goal."
What would you tell someone who is considering returning to school to earn a master's degree?
"Put the NOW in knowledge and move forward. The skills you gain from the academic rigor of graduate degree work benefit you and those in your community. The more you learn, the more you will be able to think outside of your normal scope. With the advanced degree you can further yourself and have the expertise to help someone else."
What was the biggest challenge you faced when pursuing your master's degree?
"Even though I was fortunate to have earned tuition reimbursement through my job, I still needed to address the affordability of graduate school. Current tuition rates averaging $6,000-$10,000 a semester can create a financial barrier but, I think master's degrees should be seen as an investment in your future."
What was the biggest reward for earning the master's degree?
"It has given me the opportunity to contribute back to the community I hold dear. The five disciplines of public health are epidemiology, statistics, global health, social and behavioral aspects of community health and management and policy sciences. The degree gave me ability to engage in research, to develop outreach programs, and to serve as a public health advocate. The greatest gift a master's degree can afford you is the privilege to achieve more."
Robin D. Everson is a native Chicagoan who resides in Dallas, Texas. Her appreciation for art, food, wine, people and places has helped her become a well-respected journalist. A life-long lover of education, Robin seeks to learn and enlighten others about culture. You can find her work at Examiner.com
