Michelle Reece

2014 Doctor of Public Health

Currently:
Assistant Professor, Department of Public Health
College of Health and Human Services
Western Kentucky University

"Choosing ETSU for my doctoral studies was one of the best decisions I made."

Question: How did your education prepare you for the real world?

I knew that I wanted to pursue a Teaching & Research Faculty position upon completion of my DrPH. The various opportunities that would outfit me for this goal were afforded me throughout my program at ETSU.

The support and mentorship of the leaders and faculty in the CPH, the quality and content of the courses, the emphasis on mastering competencies, the push towards excellence, and learning to deal with diverse perspectives in academia all contributed to my preparation for the real world.

Question: What is one thing you wish you had known when you were a student?

Earning a grade A does not equal academic or professional excellence. Networking, building effective partnerships, along with the pursuit of excellence may serve as well or better than the simple pursuit of the 4.0 GPA.

Any other thoughts?

I am proud to be a graduate of the ETSU College of Public Health and I continue to be impressed with the work our graduates are doing across the nation and beyond. Choosing ETSU for my doctoral studies was one of the best decisions I made.