Okon, a second-year PhD student in Community Health, is making the most of her time at UIUC. Working in the MEASURE Lab under Dr. Hoopsick’s mentorship, she has embraced opportunities that will help her achieve her career goals.
"The programme offers a well-rounded experience, combining applied knowledge, teaching training, and research development," she says. "Coming from a different academic background, I was initially worried about building a solid foundation in the field. However, I quickly discovered that the programme is well-structured to provide the essential knowledge and skills to prepare me for a successful career in public health."
Beyond the classroom, Okon presented a poster at the 2024 American Public Health Association Annual Conference, a milestone that allowed her to connect with leading professionals in the field.
"I’m proud to be part of this dynamic and supportive academic community," she says.