Elisabeth Brisley

I had originally intended to pursue medicine, but after receiving my minor in public health I became interested in health administration and policy. The 2016 presidential election and the campaign leading up to it increased my drive to be a part of this vast field, with policy and analysis being my greatest interests. The marketplace includes both public and private industry, and leaves many roads to explore with a master's degree in public health.

I chose UB to be back in New York State, where the school has a great connection with both local and state networks for public health initiatives. I knew I wanted to continue my education in a city where I could get involved in different experiences during the program, with those experiences contributing towards making me a better candidate in the job market after graduating.

I have thoroughly enjoyed the Healthcare Policy in the U.S and Public Health Law courses offered in the health services administration concentration. These were topics I had not previously had much educational experience in but wanted to know more about. The discussion-based classes provided a great opportunity to explore my own interests in particular topics covered and current events as well. I also enjoy the program planning and evaluation class in community health and health behavior. Not only was it a great experience to work on a long-term project with a group but the professor brought relevant information from their experiences into her teaching which kept the class exciting.

I am also conducting my field training with BlueCross BlueShield Association in Washington, D.C. where I am working on conducting research on the BlueCross Plan for implementation on preventative and treatment strategies across the country. The opportunity to be a part of history and be in the Capital while debates occurred on the monumental healthcare law will always be the highlight of my educational experience.

I like the size of the program. The professors all engage with students and create an environment where I feel comfortable knocking on the doors of my professors to ask questions about classes, research or even advice on how to pursue career opportunities.

Obtaining a degree from UB shows shows I have the range of skills and substantive knowledge to find solutions in a range of healthcare industries from private to public to management, which I believe will help me stand apart in a ever competitive job market.