My Public Health Philosophy Statement

Ethan Bower
My Philosophy is one that focuses on solving the problems of an ever- changing world
through the power of disease prevention. I want to serve populations who are at high risk for
infectious disease and work to reduce infectivity. While my focus is Epidemiology, I would like
to review the statistical aspects of the field to further my education and ensure the quality of my
work.
My whole life has been centered around health care. Although no one in my family works
in the field, I have always loved it and everything it entails. From middle school learning about
anatomical structures and physiology, to high school where I performed dissections, attended
Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA) courses, worked with cadavers, and even learned how to
properly intubate a patient, I knew there was more for me to do. I felt that there was something
slightly different that I was meant for; a better way I could help not just one patient, but a
population all at once. It was not until I discovered the book ‘The Hot Zone’ that I realized
epidemiology was my calling. I was completely captivated by the concepts of an epidemic, the
virulence of diseases, and the statistical analysis as well as the practical application of disease
prevention. A light bulb clicked in my head and I knew that this is how I could help people while
still doing something I loved. As my passion for this field developed, I thought of a quote one
day that keeps me inspired to achieve my goals. “Do not get caught in the dark, always
remember to live in color.” A simple, yet powerful statement that came from the heart. Although
there is hardship in the world, it is important to think of what makes the world a better place, and
if someone cant do that for themselves, make sure you are their light to guide the way, everyone
has a right to be healthy and treated with respect. I made this quote to constantly remind myself
of my potential. While I have the potential to become an epidemiologist and prevent disease, I
also have the potential to make people feel safe and hopeful. Health care is about wellness, so I
want to be able to focus on at least some of these dimensions while also providing physical
health.
My drive for epidemiology led me to the University of North Florida where I found the
field of Public Health. By taking courses such as Microbiology and Foundations of Public Health
I was able to expand on my knowledge of both disease and health care in general. Public health
allows me to focus specifically on the concepts of my career while also providing me with other
relevant information regarding research projects and social concepts related working with
people. To me, public health is where I am meant to be. It is my passion and always has been I
am proud to be in this field.
Although I am working on my bachelor’s degree and eventually finding where I will do
my internship, the road does not end there. After I graduate next year, I will be attending
graduate school to focus in epidemiology and earn my master’s degree. Eventually, I plan to
become an epidemiologist and work in underprivileged areas. I am prepared to not only work but
serve the people that are under my care. My goal is to show how my passion has brought me to
this point, how I have dedicated my career to this field, and how I will make a change by helping
people in at risk populations. While I am still working on these goals, they will not change.
There are many things I can accomplish in health care, and by doing so, I can stay true to myself
and always strive to be that color in someone’s life when they are at their darkest.