Setting Out for San Antonio: Preparing for a Deep Dive into Community Health
Zoe Gurney
1st Year MPH Global Health Epidemiology Student
As we get close to our much-awaited field trip to San Antonio, I’m filled with feelings of excitement and nervousness. Although I have family in Austin, TX, I haven’t yet explored much of the state. However, I’m thrilled for the upcoming community health fieldwork and the opportunity to collaborate with the South Central Area Health Education Center (AHEC) through my Public Health 615: Public Health in Action (Texas) course.
While I was in high school, I had the opportunity to volunteer at a COVID vaccination site, where I helped with patient intake, managed registration, and helped ensure smooth operation of the process. This experience gave me a firsthand look at the importance of public health initiatives in times of crisis. I also interned with an early childhood education non-profit, where I created infographics to visually present data on the history of childhood education in the local county. While these experiences were early on in my journey, they left a lasting impression on me. I loved working within the community and collaborating with local organizations toward a shared goal of improving public health. As I prepare for this upcoming experience in San Antonio, I’m even more excited to continue building on that passion and contribute to meaningful work with a community-focused approach.
However, I can’t help but feel a bit nervous, especially since I don’t speak Spanish. Language is such a key part of culture, and I’m aware that not being fully fluent might present some challenges in communication. However, I’m eager to embrace this opportunity to learn and adapt, knowing that building connections isn’t just about words —it’s also about understanding, respect, and a willingness to engage with the community on their terms. I look forward to navigating this cultural aspect of the experience, knowing that it will push me to grow both personally and professionally as I find new ways to connect and support the community.
This upcoming experience in San Antonio is more than just a chance to learn —it’s an opportunity to immerse myself in the community, understand its unique challenges, and contribute to meaningful change. I’m excited to support the community in ways that align with their goals and efforts, while gaining valuable insights and skills to guide my future public health work. The lessons I learn throughout this journey will shape my path, deepening my commitment to collaborating with others to promote healthier, more resilient communities.