Anna Sellaro

What does public health mean to you?

When I think of public health, I think of helping others. I wanted to help people in medicine, but I saw that it wasn't for me. Being a student in public health, you are still on the frontlines helping people – just in a different way.

Why did you choose to study public health?

I chose the field of public health at WVU after many attempts to find where I would belong in different majors my freshman year. I was introduced to the School of Public Health by the Career Services Department at the end of my freshman year and was able to take a tour of the school over the summer. That following fall semester, I was fully enrolled, and I knew immediately this was the field I wanted to be in for my future career. It all just clicked and I knew the material I was learning was a perfect fit for me.

Have any members of the faculty or staff influenced you in a unique way?

Dr. Weaver has shown her support throughout all of the endeavors I have pursued throughout my master's degree journey. I will forever be grateful for her guidance and mentorship.

What would you tell prospective students about WVU and the School of Public Health?

This degree has challenged me in many different ways. It's taught me to look at health from a bigger perspective than just one person. The school is so organized and ready to help you in any way, all you have to do is ask. They have truly set me up for my future endeavors.

How have your experiences in the School of Public Health helped prepare you for your future?

The professors and courses within the School of Public Health have helped me gain as much knowledge about the field before being sent out into the work field. Having the added advantage of being able to have a hands-on internship and capstone project before we graduate helps us get a firsthand look at the different career paths we can take after graduating.

Tell us about your capstone and field placement experience.

My internship and capstone were both done through Mon Health System, which is under Vandalia Health. I have been under HR for the past year as their intern, taking on numerous projects and roles. For my capstone, I helped work to integrate a new health system in our organization. I will be able to take these experiences and apply them to my future career!

What advice would you give to your freshman self?

Don't worry--in the end you'll find the career where you best fit.

What do you plan to do upon completion of your degree?  

I will be Mon Health's first administrative fellow starting July 1, 2024!  

Any additional involvement in activities or comments about the program?

I was heavily involved in getting the Health Administration Student Association up and running during my time as a graduate student. I served as the president for my second year in the Master of Health Administration program. This is a very small program where you can gain hands-on experience and learn from real-world examples.