THURS-056 - What Do Students Need Most to Practice Public Health? Lessons from a Mixed Methods Study
Thursday, April 23, 2026
5:00 PM - 6:00 PM PST
Location: Plaza Foyer, Plaza Level
Area of Responsibility: Area VIII: Ethics and Professionalism Keywords: Career Development and Professional Preparation@@@Empowerment@@@Workforce Development, Subcompetencies: 8.1.2 Demonstrate ethical leadership, management, and behavior., 8.3 Engage in professional development to maintain and/or enhance proficiency. Research or Practice: Research
Applied Practice Experience Coordinator and Instructor SUNY Old Westbury Old Westbury, New York, United States
Learning Objectives:
At the end of this session, participants will be able to:
Teach at least three professional development strategies to enhance personal proficiency within undergraduate public health education to a diverse student body.
Demonstrate at least two ethical leadership approaches that promote integrity, accountability, and equity when guiding students through experiential learning and professional development activities.
Explain what employers consider most important for newly graduated public health students
Brief Abstract Summary: Addressing the growing demand for a diverse, skilled, and resilient public health workforce requires intentional strategies to prepare new graduates for complex challenges in health equity, policy, and practice. Professional development, experiential learning, and mentorship are essential in preparing the next generation of public health professionals to meet these needs. However, many programs lack structures that combine vocational training with undergraduate general education. To better serve our current students, we surveyed and interviewed recent graduates about the ways in which their experiential learning course influenced their career trajectories and preparedness. Findings revealed a dynamic connection between hands-on practice and students’ post-graduation lives. These findings highlight the value of experiential learning and its impact on student success.
Detailed abstract description: Drawing from qualitative findings from surveys and interviews with recent graduates, this session highlights how experiential learning influenced their confidence, career preparedness, and understanding of public health leadership in action.
Attendees will discover how intentional leadership, mentorship, and experiential learning can transform the undergraduate public health experience and shape the next generation of health professionals. Additionally, attendees will be offered strategies for integrating professional development and workforce training directly into academic settings.
This poster presentation is ideal for faculty, academic advisors, and public health professionals committed to training and mentoring the next workforce. Attendees will leave equipped to build a similar learning environment that promotes growth, equity, and excellence—one that empowers students to become confident leaders ready to advance public health practice.
