Carolina Gonzalez

Quick Facts

Program: Master of Public Health
Concentration: Administration and Policy
Graduation Year: 2017
Current Job Title: Health Education Assistant II for County of Riverside Emergency Management Department
Hometown: Moreno Valley, CA
Current City: Moreno Valley, CA

Life at CBU

Why did you choose this graduate degree program? What interested you in this particular field of study?
I already had a bachelor’s degree in health science and public health, which introduced me to the field and gave me overall knowledge and experience but I still wanted to learn more. I have always had a passion for health and helping others. This degree was the perfect way to learn more, help others, gain and expand my skills in the field, and do so while having a Christ-centered education.

What did you like about being in this program at CBU?
Many things! A Christ-centered education made all the difference, especially in a program that is centered on helping a large percentage of the community. Not only did I have the face-to-face interactions with colleagues and professors, but I had the opportunity to learn from instructors who had real world experiences and a passion for public health.

What did you think about your professors?
I came from a public institution to a private one, and, in comparison, the relationships I formed with the professors at CBU and level of care was amazing. Not only were they passionate about the coursework material but they were very compassionate towards the students. The professors were always very accommodating, looking to help their students succeed in the best way possible. I have never had this level of support before.

Did you complete any field work?
Yes, I completed internship hours to complete my degree. I was fortunate to complete my hours at the County of Riverside EMD. My experience was extraordinary. I had the opportunity to put into practice many of the things I learned throughout the program and even some that I was not as familiar with. It was a very rewarding experience that helped me grow as a person, while building relationships with partners in the community.

How did you grow while in this program at CBU?
I grew in so many ways: I matured mentally and spiritually, and I gained experience in the field. This program was challenging in many ways but it taught me to become more organized, prioritize, and to cherish the time you have with others and really be in the moment.

Life after CBU

What have you done since graduating?
I was very fortunate to land a job in the County of Riverside EMD, where I am still employed today. With the agency, I continue to constantly learn and have even become the department’s health ambassador and training coordinator.  

How has your time at CBU prepared you for your life and career after grad school?
The skills I learned throughout the program translate directly into my personal and professional life. Understanding data, a passion for helping others and the ability to communicate effectively are some of the many skills that I acquired.

Is there anything you learned at CBU that you still use in your professional life today?
That research class will come in handy more than you might think. The ability to understand data and more importantly communicate it to the masses has been a skill that I constantly use.

How are you making a difference in the world?
I walked into this program wanting to gain the skills to help and feel like I am making a difference. I feel I am doing just that. With my current position I work with public health emergency preparedness for the entire county. Every day I use the skills I learned through the MPH program and see how it touches individuals and the community. I see people prepare for disasters, learn what they need, and become more confident and equipped to handle the situation. 

Would you recommend CBU to others?
Definitely, it is an experience of a lifetime that once accomplished, is rewarding.