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A perk of being at the ÒÁÈËÖ±²¥ is access to innovative academic programming, combined with connections to leading practitioners in their field(s). I connected with Monica Yang, a graduate student in the Master of Public Health program to learn more about what public health is and why it’s important.

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Monica Yang

Can you tell me a bit about yourself?

I completed my bachelor’s in public health at the University of Lethbridge and now continue this journey at the ÒÁÈËÖ±²¥. Along the way, I’ve coordinated a vaccination promotion project, volunteered with the SIRCLE lab, supported a crisis class with the ECSSEN Chinese emotional support hotline and currently I’m teaching as a health science instructor at NorQuest College. I serve as the external relations representative for the School of Public Health Students’ Association, helping to organize student networking events. 

I began my career as a practical nurse and worked on the frontline during COVID-19. That experience changed how I see health; it made me realize that caring for individuals is meaningful, but improving systems and community supports can create even greater impact. This inspired me to pursue public health. 

Outside of school, I love nature, photography and spending time with friends. 

Why did you choose the Master of Public Health (MPH) program?

I came from a nursing background and worked in acute care, long-term care and supportive living settings. I chose nursing because I loved seeing patients recover. 

It felt rewarding to make a difference in someone’s life. But when the pandemic hit, that feeling began to fade. I often felt like I was drowning alongside my patients. I saw firsthand how much could be improved and how system-level changes could protect healthcare workers and the people we serve. 

That’s when I discovered public health. I realized I want to be the person who puts up a sign upstream to prevent people from falling into the river, rather than just rescuing them downstream. Public health gives me the chance to be involved in this kind of lasting impact. 

Why do you think public health is important to us as individuals and society as a whole?

Public health is such a broad field. It connects to almost every aspect of life. Health isn’t just about not being sick, it’s also about meeting people’s psychological, social and spiritual needs. Public health looks at all of these together. 

Policies, economic conditions, food accessibility, education, living environments, social supports and even cultural and spiritual connections are all contributing factors for our wellbeing. 

Public health helps us see this bigger picture and understand how these pieces fit together. It teaches us to care for people not just at the individual level, but in a more comprehensive and equitable way. It promotes the opportunity for everyone to live a healthier life. 

What’s one thing that has surprised you during your time in the program?

One thing that surprised me the most is how engaging and practical the MPH program is. Many of our courses include group projects and teamwork that focus on real-life public health issues, whether it’s knowledge translation for communities or implementation strategies for policies and programs. We pair up with organizations and government agencies for these projects. I truly feel like a public health professional making a real impact. 

I’ve also come to really appreciate all the group work we do. Having worked in the field for a bit, I realized that collaboration is a big part of professional life. Getting to experience that in school — learning to communicate, adapt and problem solve with others — has been incredibly valuable and prepared us for future health careers. 

Are there any upcoming opportunities for people to learn more about public health?

There are some exciting events coming up for anyone interested in public health. 

On November 3, there’s a book launch for by Dr. Kue Young, our former dean at the School of Public Health. Dr Young has done incredible work supporting Indigenous communities and addressing cultural and social determinants of health. It’s a great opportunity to learn more about Indigenous culture and Canadian public health. 

Then on November 5, we’ll have the “This is Public Health” series, featuring several events, including Dr Laura McDougall’s talk on “The Future of Public Health in Increasingly Polarized Times”, a student research and knowledge-to-action poster presentation and the Douglas R. Wilson Lecture on “How our Digital Health Divide is Making us Sick”.  

Together, these events highlight why public health is essential to building a healthier, more connected community. 

Do you have any tips for someone considering this area of study, research or career?

My biggest suggestion for students, whether you’re in a course-based program like me or a thesis-based degree, is to put yourself out there and make connections. Attend events, join seminars and talk to students, alumni and professionals in the field. You’ll be surprised by how much you can learn by listening to others’ experiences.

Don't be afraid to step outside your comfort zone. Public health is all about collaboration, curiosity and community. So take every chance to engage and learn from those around you. Show your passion, be open to new ideas and embrace the opportunity that comes your way. 

You never know which conversation might inspire your next step in life.