Why did you choose the Yale School of Public Health?
When I was interviewing for PhD programs, I was advised to ask current students if they were happy. At YSPH, I got a clear and resounding “yes” from everyone I spoke to. It was obvious that there was a strong sense of community and resources and support for PhD students to help them have both a successful educational and training experience and to enjoy their lives outside of school as well.
What were you doing before enrolling at YSPH?
Prior to starting at YSPH, I was working as a public health program associate at the Rollins School of Public Health at Emory University in Atlanta, Georgia. My primary job was running a multi-state, randomized controlled trial, evaluating a set of behavioral and educational interventions to improve vaccine uptake among pregnant people in obstetric care clinics.
When I was interviewing for PhD programs, I was advised to ask current students if they were happy. At YSPH, I got a clear and resounding 'yes' from everyone I spoke to.
Mallory Ellingson
What are your favorite aspects of the YSPH academic program?
I’ve loved how much we are able to customize our academic experience to align with our specific research interests and career goals. It was another thing that drew me so strongly to YSPH – I was able to pick exactly the classes I needed to gain the skills and knowledge that best supported my career path, as well as find exciting research experiences.
What was your most impactful experience outside of class?
I’ve had the chance to work with other researchers and public health professionals on improving HPV vaccine uptake in Connecticut, and through that, have had the opportunity to speak with groups of health professionals across the state about how to improve HPV vaccine acceptance in their own communities, including schools and colleges. I think it’s important to always remain connected and grounded in the communities that your research is trying to help.
Do you have a favorite Yale place or New Haven food?
Atticus Market.
What do you hope to do after graduation?
I plan to stay in academia and eventually become faculty, so I am currently in the process of seeking out postdoctoral positions so I can continue my research on improving vaccine uptake.