USF College of Public Health undergraduate student Paula Hernandez has had a unique position working with both Drs. Ellen Daley and Russell Kirby on various projects as a student research assistant over the last four years.

Hernandez first became interested in public health after she applied for—and got—a student research position with Daley, a COPH professor and associate dean of research and practice.

“I had just started school as a biomedical sciences major and was applying to USF jobs when I saw that Dr. Daley needed a federal work study student,” she said. “Thankfully, I got the position my first semester and quickly learned about public health and public health research.”

When Hernandez first started her position, she didn’t know much about research. But over time, she has been fortunate enough to work on grant manuscripts with Daley and her team.

“My research knowledge has definitely evolved. When I first started, I wasn’t even majoring in public health. I remember the team telling me that by the end of this year, they’ll have me majoring in public health—and they were right!” she said. “I went from knowing nothing to wanting to continue pursuing my career in research. I’ve also learned about topics like human papilloma virus (HPV) and reproductive health, which broadened my horizon.”

While working for Daley, Hernandez would help collect articles and data on HPV for the team. She worked mostly online, using websites such as the USF Library database that gave her access to sources like Site Finder and PubMed.

This semester, Hernandez also gained the opportunity to work with Kirby, USF Distinguished Professor and Marrell Endowed Chair, on his research in the reproductive health field. While her HPV research with Daley is more qualitative, Hernandez said that Kirby’s research is more quantitative.

“It’s the best of both worlds! Learning the more quantitative side of research is different, but I feel like I’m learning a lot and will continue to do so as the year goes on,” she said.

While much of the research at the COPH takes place at the graduate level, Hernandez thinks it’s important for undergraduate students to pursue their research interests as well.

“Research teaches you what public health is outside of the classroom, and it guides what happens in many public health fields and careers,” she said. “You can also learn what topics you are most interested in, and it gives you the opportunity to learn how to work with others from all types of backgrounds.”

Hernandez had advice for other students who are interested in undergraduate research opportunities.

“Looking back on the past four years, it’s been a long, long road. I would tell others to always be open to anything, because you never know where life might lead you. If you’re interested in something, try it and don’t be scared to try new things!” she said. “Also, reach out to the COPH faculty. They are eager to teach students and are some of the nicest, most welcoming faculty I’ve ever met. And keep an eye on your email—that’s how I saw Dr. Kirby’s call for student researchers.”

After graduating with bachelor degrees in public health and biomedical sciences, Hernandez is planning on continuing her education and research interests at the COPH in the MPH program next fall.

“I hope to keep developing my research skills, not only within reproductive health and maternal and child health, but also within different areas like infectious disease, global health or even chronic diseases,” she said. “One of my biggest goals in life is to eventually go to medical school and become a doctor. I would like to use my public health background to really make a change and close knowledge gaps that I feel are really prevalent within the community.”

Story by Caitlin Keough, USF College of Public Health