I am pursuing a dual degree in Population Health and Economics, and am looking forward to Professor Gupta’s Corporate Social Responsibility course because I expect it to integrate both of my fields of study into one. Population health courses generally relate to epidemiology, biostatistics, pharmaceuticals, and community health. One of my classes – Justice, Equity, and Ethics in Population Health – looks into environmental and social issues relating to said principles. Economic courses relate to the economy (obviously), consumer choice, federal and corporate spending, etc. While these disciplines are vastly different, looking at the ethical responsibilities of corporations and how that affects consumers, I believe, will channel both fields. I expect to be satisfied by this curriculum and to deepen my understanding of the intersection between my majors; ultimately exploring ways to combine them into one fulfilling career. 

I am not entirely sure what to expect from the Gupta/Swain Internship Seminar. I assume that I will gain many valuable skills from this course. I imagine learning how to network, compose myself in a professional environment, and manage documents like resumes/cover letters. During the academic year I work at the Center for Career and Professional Development as a Career Intern, helping students refine their resumes and navigate job opportunities. I expect that I will be able to transfer these skills into the seminar. I especially look forward to applying what I have learned through my job into the real world, gaining valuable experience in a professional setting. 

My internship placement is still in the works, but from what I have heard so far I expect to really enjoy the work. The Metabolism of Cities is a non-profit organization researching the flow of resources in an urban environment. My role would be in the public health sector, researching how the tools provided affects the population and how Milan’s urban environment functions. Not only is this information valuable as I consider future careers, but it will be interesting to research Italy’s culture and population. This will provide me with a deep appreciation for cultural diversity upon my arrival home to the United States. I will learn more about what professionalism in the workplace looks like, how to manage time, and how to communicate effectively in a team.

Cultural immersion is what I look forward to the most in this opportunity. I have always loved to travel, but find it exhausting, and am excited to stay for a period of time long enough to make it feel like home. I will create a routine, adjusting my living habits to fit Italian culture. While there may be culture shock, I will gain a deeper appreciation for my life at home and for the authenticity of each place. Being in a group setting will be a good experience for me because I am an introvert, but will be motivated by others to go out of my comfort zone and try new things. A goal I have for myself is to take a solo trip to a nearby city one weekend. This will give me the opportunity to recharge, reflect, and reconnect with myself while simultaneously challenging myself to be fully independent.