Hannah Prinz, MPH25
"I had ideas of what I wanted to pursue within public health, but wanted more in-depth knowledge so I could discover which areas I have an aptitude for and am most passionate about."
Meet Hannah Prinz, a MPH candidate at Tufts University specializing in Health Services Management and Policy. Driven by a profound curiosity about public health and a desire to make a significant impact, Prinz chose Tufts for its robust research opportunities, flexible program structure, and vibrant community.
Why did you choose to pursue this degree?
"I chose to pursue my MPH because I felt like I still had more to learn about public health. There are so many different areas of public health, and I want to experience as much of it as I can. I know now that I was right in believing I had only seen the beginning of what public health is. I learn something new in this program every class. I knew that I could do more in the field (and therefore help more people) with an advanced degree. I also wanted opportunities to complete more research, network with like-minded professionals, and find the area of public health that I wanted to focus in so I could further my career. I had ideas of what I wanted to pursue within public health, but wanted more in-depth knowledge so I could discover which areas I have an aptitude for and am most passionate about."
Why did you choose Tufts to pursue your degree?
"I chose Tufts because I truly believe it would be the best for my career. I applied and was accepted into several great programs, but Tufts stood out to me. I liked how many opportunities there are to do research, which was very important to me when selecting a school. I was happy about the smaller class sizes, modern campus, and location. Being in Boston gives me plenty of opportunities for work, internships, and more. Tufts is right in Chinatown so there are lots of fun things to do as well! I also liked the flexibility of the program. I have done classes online and in-person, morning and evening, and during different days of the week to allow me to still work and have a social life while in the program. It is very important to me to have a good work-life balance, and Tufts is very accommodating of that."
What has your experience in the MPH program been like?
"I have had a great time in the program. The numerous professors with different areas of focus have allowed me to experience all different aspects of public health. I feel I have a better understanding of public health overall, but I also feel that I know more about which areas I have interests in, like maternal-child health, health policy, health disparities, and environmental health. I also love the exposure to all the opportunities around me. Tufts gives all students many chances to get involved whether it be in research, internships, or student organizations."
What is your favorite aspect about the program?
"My favorite aspect of the program are the connections I have made. I have made friends in my cohort, which is great for study dates and exploring the city in our free time. The program is very inclusive and welcoming. I have always felt at home here at Tufts and do not know of anyone who hasn't. It is great to meet people in the field coming from different backgrounds with great experiences very different from my own. I learn from my professors and my peers. I like the ability to collaborate on projects for classes and have a sense of community."
What is your proudest personal accomplishment while at Tufts?
"My proudest personal accomplishment was receiving the Siegel Fellowship. I applied for this fellowship through the school and will be completing this for my integrative learning experience (ILE), which is a requirement of the program. I got to choose my own topic and which member of the faculty I got to work with. I now have Dr. Jahanfar as a mentor on my project and have developed a great professional relationship with her. With her help, I am working on my systematic review that I hope to publish. It is looking at the association between method of birth delivery and health outcomes in infants, specifically atopic dermatitis, asthma, and allergies."
What do you wish to accomplish upon graduation?
"Upon graduation, I would like to find a job that will allow me to build upon what I have learned here and apply it in the real world. I want the ability to earn promotions and complete more research. I aspire to grow in the world of public health and accomplish as much as I can, wherever it may take me. Eventually, I would like to earn my doctorate degree as well and have the chance to teach public health students."
What do you want a prospective student to know about Tufts?
"I would want any prospective student to know that Tufts is the right choice. There are many great programs out there, but they will not have the same opportunities and sense of community that Tufts does. The great location, amazing faculty, and driven students make the experience that much richer. Go Jumbos!!!"