Campus COVID-19 effort provides valuable experience for public health students

Throughout the fall semester, undergraduate, graduate and doctoral students as well as postdoctoral fellows in a variety of academic programs went to work in campus labs that are testing wastewater samples for COVID-19 and as contact tracers undertaking essential public health activities. Not only have they contributed to the campus’ efforts to mitigate the disease among the University population but also gained valuable hands-on experience that will inform their future research opportunities and career paths.

ANNA URREA

Public Health Sciences, class of 2021

Contact Tracer

“Most individuals we speak with are cooperative because they want to keep their community and loved ones safe. Reflecting on this, it reinforces the excitement I feel for this field. As we have seen unfold before our eyes this past year, public health officials are more important than ever. Without their expertise, the world would be a much different place.”

KRISTEN ALLEN

Public Health Science, class of 2021

Contact Tracer

“One challenge for a contact tracer is explaining the seriousness of following quarantine and isolation guidelines to college students. We are social people but at a time like this, it is imperative to follow the quarantine guidelines in order to prevent the spread of COVID-19. I remind those that I talk to that this is to support the health and safety of themselves, their loved ones and their community.”

Ryan Buchmeier

Public Health Sciences, class of 2021

Contact Tracer

“The most rewarding part about working as a COVID contact tracer is knowing I can provide the UNC Charlotte community with vital information that will help keep themselves and loved ones safe. The overall goal of public health is to prevent diseases and promote healthy lifestyle choices among the community; knowing that I’m contributing to this allows me to feel that my work is important.”