Robert Schmidt
2008 Bachelor of Science in Public Health, Health Administration
2018 Master of Public Health, Health Services Administration
Currently:
Director, Blount County Health Department
"My education in the College of Public Health not only gave me the foundation of public health knowledge but also fostered the importance of developing relationships with those within the community to promote public health together."
Question: How did your education prepare you for the real world?
My education in the College of Public Health not only gave me the foundation of public health knowledge but also fostered the importance of developing relationships with those within the community to promote public health together.
Question: What is something you wish you had known when you were a student?
In addition to the relationships, understanding the importance of having the ability to communicate at all levels within the community in order to relay information in a way that is understandable by the community partners. For example, being able to communicate with diverse stakeholder groups is essential - whether the general public, county officials, or local business leaders.
Any other thoughts?
II am grateful to work in the field of public health and with my community. My community partners' willingness to collaborate with me is what makes the difference in all areas of the population we serve. Issues like those faced by the COVID-19 pandemic will always be a part of my career and a topic of discussion, but there will always be public health needs that are both already on the radar and that arise unexpectedly as well. Having strong community relationships makes all the difference.