It was a mixture of grief and desire to improve public health during the pandemic that drove Mary Xiong M’24 to pursue a Master of Public Health Degree. “I was going through a very difficult time losing a sibling to COVID-19 complications and decided to go back to get my education, which was what kept me grounded in wanting to improve public health,” she said.
As a working professional, she looked for a program with flexibility — particularly as everyone remained remote during the pandemic.
“It was a perfect match to enroll with Saint Mary’s because I felt they were equipped with the tools for online programs,” she said. “I also appreciated the values of this college and its inclusivity of all students from different life backgrounds and experiences.”
Xiong said the Master of Public Health program allowed her to apply her real-life and relevant experiences in the classroom and vice versa. “I also appreciated being able to openly discuss complicated topics that have a real impact on communities,” she said.
“I enjoyed being able to discuss topics on social determinants of health, race and racism, racial disparities, and health inequities because they resonated with me and my experiences, especially the reason why I chose to go back to school,” she added. “Those topics and issues continue to create gaps in improving public health for communities that are disproportionately impacted. Being able to bring my perspective and life experiences to these issues to inform my classmates was empowering.”
Despite the obstacles she faced, she said graduating on time gave her immense pride and accomplishment. “I appreciate all my professors and the program director for believing in me and working with me toward the end of the program to navigate the challenges that arose,” she said.
Xiong said that what she learned from the program has helped her to look at healthcare and public policies from a broader lens, and she hopes to apply this perspective as a member of the Minnesota Public Health Association. She also can apply what she learned in her role as senior director of public engagement at the Office of Governor Tim Walz and Lt. Governor Peggy Flanagan.
She would recommend the program to others. “The model and methods to work on your education at your pace while maintaining a professional career works at Saint Mary’s,” she said. “The professors bring a lot of knowledge in their areas of expertise.”
Xiong said, although her summer class was small, her field is growing and the impact those with a Master of Public Health degree can have is huge. “The COVID-19 pandemic proved to me that public health is complex and is always a developing practice,” she said. “However, it is our responsibility to also take part in improving public health outcomes for all.”
