Key Learnings
Taking HLSC 430W, Community Health Research and Promotion, was an impactful experience that directly aligned with the ODU LeADERS program’s emphasis on Leadership, Academic Excellence, and Service. This writing-intensive course enhanced my ability to analyze public health issues through the lens of social and behavioral sciences, equipping me with the critical thinking and problem-solving skills necessary for effective leadership in healthcare.
The class emphasized practical applications of health promotion strategies, such as assessing interventions at individual, family, and community levels. This aligns with the leadership focus of LeADERS by preparing me to evaluate and implement strategies that drive positive change in public health. Additionally, the exploration of ethical dimensions in public health interventions strengthened my commitment to accountability and integrity, which are essential traits for leading in a multidisciplinary field.
HLSC 430W also fostered academic excellence by requiring high-level research and writing skills. Assignments such as the final paper and literature review challenged me to synthesize complex ideas, apply APA standards, and communicate findings effectively. These experiences honed my ability to present evidence-based insights—a critical skill for advancing in both academic and professional healthcare settings.
Finally, the course’s focus on community health promotion aligns with the service component of LeADERS. By analyzing social determinants of health and exploring interventions for diverse populations, I developed a deeper understanding of how to address real-world health challenges. This knowledge equips me to make meaningful contributions to my community, advancing both personal and professional goals within the LeADERS framework.
Promoting Public Health Through Research:
Completing my final paper, Children’s Mental Health: Domestic Violence in Chicago, for HLSC 430W: Community Health Research and Promotion, was a pivotal experience that directly aligns with the goals of the ODU LeADERS program. This project allowed me to address a pressing public health issue by examining the profound mental health effects of domestic violence on children and proposing actionable strategies to mitigate its impact. Through the use of the PRECEDE-PROCEED model, I was able to systematically analyze the problem and design targeted interventions, showcasing my ability to approach complex challenges with a leadership mindset. Conducting an in-depth literature review, critically analyzing data, and integrating findings into evidence-based recommendations strengthened my research and analytical skills. This process also reinforced the importance of ethical practices, such as ensuring proper sourcing and accountability, which are integral to my academic and professional growth. Moreover, the project deepened my understanding of community health resources and equipped me to apply these insights to real-world scenarios. I feel that this experience has prepared me to make meaningful contributions to the field of public health by promoting mental health equity and advocating for the needs of vulnerable populations.