GraduateSchoolPersonalStatement.com
by Dr. Robert Edinger
Helping Applicants Since 2005 
drrobertedinger@gmail.com

Sample First Paragraph for the PHD in Public Health

Growing up in rural Ethiopia, I became a living storyteller of the complex and devastating ways that environmental crises and economic hardship are intertwined, with the survival of people's livelihoods—and the land and water upon which it is based—hanging in the balance. These early experiences help to explain why I continue to work enormously hard to become a scientist: absorbed by the question of how public policy can be used to successfully achieve Biodiversity Net Gain (BNG). For me, Public Affairs is much more than an academic field of study. I see it as the most powerful tool available, to serve as a bridge connecting ecological preservation with social equity and sustainable development. Thus, I explore how the pursuit of BNG goes beyond the preservation of nature and ensures—at least theoretically—that development projects create measurable improvements and demonstrate net gains in biodiversity, enhancing sustainable livelihood and human wellbeing.

Studying Public Health Epidemiology in graduate school equips you to investigate disease patterns, inform health policy, and lead data-driven interventions that save lives. It’s a high-impact, fast-growing field at the intersection of science, equity, and global health. Here’s a detailed guide to help you explore the value, trends, and strategies for pursuing graduate studies in Epidemiology:

🧬 Why Study Epidemiology in Graduate School?

• Disease Prevention & Control: Epidemiologists identify risk factors, track outbreaks, and evaluate interventions to reduce illness and death.

• Data-Driven Impact: You’ll use biostatistics, surveillance systems, and modeling to guide public health decisions.

• Global Relevance: From pandemics to chronic disease, epidemiology is central to health systems worldwide.

• Career Versatility: Graduates work in government (CDC, WHO), academia, NGOs, pharma, and health tech.

According to the University of Pittsburgh, epidemiologists address complex health concerns like aging, reproductive health, and environmental safety, with job growth projected at 26% by 2031.

📈 Emerging Trends in Epidemiology

• Climate & Environmental Health: Researchers are linking climate change to disease patterns, from vector-borne illnesses to respiratory conditions.

• Social Epidemiology: Focus on how poverty, racism, and education shape health outcomes is growing rapidly.

• AI & Predictive Modeling: Machine learning is being used to forecast outbreaks and optimize interventions.

• Genomic Epidemiology: Integration of genetic data helps trace disease transmission and personalize prevention.

• Global Health Security: Post-COVID, there’s increased investment in pandemic preparedness and surveillance infrastructure.

🧠 Key Considerations Before Applying

• Program Type:

  • MPH in Epidemiology: Practice-oriented, ideal for public health leadership.

  • MS in Epidemiology: More research-focused, with strong quantitative emphasis.

  • PhD in Epidemiology: For academic, policy, or high-level research careers.

• Quantitative Readiness:

  • Strong background in statistics, biology, or health sciences is essential.

• Faculty & Research Fit:

  • Review faculty publications and ongoing projects—especially in your area of interest (e.g., infectious disease, maternal health, social determinants).

• Career Goals:

• Consider whether you want to work in field epidemiology, policy, academia, or data science.

🛠️ Tips for Success

• Build Data Skills: Learn R, SAS, or Python for statistical analysis and data visualization.

• Stay Curious: Read journals like American Journal of Epidemiology or Epidemiologic Reviews.

• Craft a Focused Statement: Highlight your passion for population health, research experience, and alignment with the program’s mission.

• Engage with the Field: Attend webinars, follow health agencies, and connect with alumni or mentors.

• Think Interdisciplinary: Combine epidemiology with environmental science, policy, or behavioral health for broader impact.