News, Outreach

HPAM in Action: Student Spotlight

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The HPAM department of the College of Public Health is proud of the experience and prestige our students bring to our program. Here is just one example from Erica Parks, a first-year Masters student in the HPAM concentration:

Greetings!
I served as the keynote speaker for the 1^st Annual Community Expo at Atlanta Metropolitan College in Atlanta, Georgia. This is the college where I received my first degree (Associate of Science). I have continued to participate and serve in several leadership capacities on a volunteer basis since I graduated from the school. When I was a student there I was involved on campus and I served as a Senator in the Student Government Association. I also reigned as the college queen 1999-2000. I remember several community leaders speaking at different campus events when I was a student there. They inspired me with their speeches, and I often dreamed of standing in their shoes one day. I am very grateful that God blessed me with the opportunity to live out my dream.

The topic of my speech was “Civil Engagement” I challenged the students to become more involved in their communities. I brought to their attention the reasons why our communities are decaying. I shared my personal story of what inspired me to get involved and how my passion for HIV began when my maternal grandmother was diagnosed during my adolescent years. I had a wonderful time and I got a chance to walk around and talk to a lot of the students after the event. The students received my speech very well and I spoke with boldness. I must admit I myself was impressed with my speech. My favorite part of my speech is when I stated “I hope that you do not think that the knowledge that you have gained is for your own personal use; for you have been equipped to lead and assist the next generation”. I felt like a politician running for office as I walked around to greet the students. I have enclosed photos as well for you to see. Thank you for allowing me to share my experience.

Erica Parks

Erica Parks as the keynote speaker at the 1st Annual Community Expo at Atlanta Metropolitan College