Case Study: From Student to Public Health Leader

Public health students
College of Pharmacy & Health Sciences

Case Study: From Student to Public Health Leader

February 26, 2025 | by Clara LoCricchio

How one student built a multifaceted public health foundation while embracing Belmont's community spirit 

To better understand what sets Belmont's public health program apart, we spoke with current students about their journey to choosing and thriving in the program. For Alex Hamm, her time at Belmont has been defined by hands-on experience, mentorship and community engagement that has prepared her for a successful career in public health.  Alex Hamm and faculty

Student Profile 

Name: Alex Hamm 

Program: Bachelor of Science in Public Health 

Notable Experiences: President of Public Health Student Association and Canine Companions Collar Scholars, member of Kappa Alpha Theta, student leader at FitRec, pre-PA mentor with the pre-health club 

The Challenge 

Like many prospective health science students, Hamm needed to find a program that would provide both theoretical knowledge and practical experience in public health. Beyond academics, she looked for an environment that would foster personal growth and offer diverse opportunities for professional development. 

The Solution 

After weighing her options, Hamm chose Belmont's public health program based on three key differentiators: 

1. Hands-On Learning Environment 

"Belmont has provided me with incredible hands-on experiences that have prepared me for my future career,” said Hamm. “Through research projects, volunteer opportunities, grant applications and mentorship programs, I've been able to apply what I've learned in the classroom to real-world settings." 

2. Personalized Faculty Mentorship 

"Belmont's Christian community and strong faculty mentorship have played a huge role in my academic and personal growth,” said Hamm. “The faculty's investment in students goes beyond the classroom – they truly care about helping us succeed and develop into well-rounded professionals." 

3. Diverse Engagement Opportunities 

"Belmont offers a wealth of opportunities, and the most impactful for me have been my professors, my advisor and the organizations on campus,” said Hamm. “The small size of the department fosters a close-knit learning environment where faculty can provide individualized support and feedback.” 

The Results 

Hamm has found that Belmont's program delivers more than just academic credentials. She's gained: 

  •  Practical public health skills through various research projects and volunteer opportunities 
  • Leadership experience through presidency of two campus organization 
  • A comprehensive understanding of public health through a program that "not only covers a broad spectrum of public health topics but also emphasizes practical application through internships" 

Key Takeaway 

As Hamm put it: "Looking back, I can see tremendous growth in both my professional and personal life since starting at Belmont. Professionally, I've gained hands-on experience, developed research and fieldwork skills, and built strong relationships with mentors who have guided my journey. Personally, I've become more confident, engaged and proactive in seeking opportunities." 

Next Steps 

Are you ready to experience the Belmont difference? Contact our admissions team to learn more about the public health program. 

  • Speak with a current student 
  • Meet with faculty members 

Learn more about public health at Belmont