
The Wayne State University School of Medicine’s Public Health Student Organization and the Wayne State University Master of Public Health Alumni Group co-hosted their first networking event for students with alumni in collaboration with the Master of Public Health program at the university’s Integrative Biosciences Center in Detroit.
Attendees mingled Oct. 17 in a relaxed dinner setting, promoting open conversations about the evolvi esentative’s legislative director and the environmental health and safety coordinator at Blue Cross Blue Shield of Michigan in attendance.
Students listened to real-world applications of a public health career and the positive impacts that Master of Public Health graduates have on communities, highlighting the broad scope and versatility of the M.P.H. degree while inspiring students to envision their career paths.

PHSO co-presidents Summer Sitler and Sarah Eringaard helped organize the event and were two of 33 student participants at the event.
“It was an honor to be part of the planning committee. The experience was incredibly rewarding. Seeing students and alumni come together for meaningful and impactful conversations were highlights of the experience,” Sitler said.
After alumni shared their career journeys, participants broke into smaller groups, allowing students to engage more closely with alumni. In the breakout sessions, students asked about navigating the job market, gathered tips and tricks for establishing a public health career, and sought guidance on transitioning from graduate school to professional life.

“The event really showed how strong and supportive the WSU public health community is, while highlighting how valuable networking can be. If given the opportunity, I would love to help support similar future events as an alumna,” Eringaard added.
A similar virtual event is planned for next spring.
For more information on the Master of Public Health program at the School of Medicine, visit https://familymedicine.med.wayne.edu/mph