As the 2024-2025 academic year concluded, we caught up with one of our students, Alejandra, who began her online public health program last fall to hear how her first year went. From juggling school, work, and motherhood to finding joy in creative projects, her back-to-school journey is marked by strength, growth, and perspective.
Q: How would you describe your first year at SDSU Global Campus?
The first semester was busier than I anticipated—our second block of classes was nonstop and really tested my time management skills. Thankfully, the second semester was more manageable. I especially enjoyed several of the projects and assignments.
One highlight was a group project where we developed a communication toolkit focused on oral health. It was rewarding to apply skills from our foundational courses to create something both creative and meaningful.
Q: What did you learn about yourself over the year?
I’ve learned to balance my time more effectively and prioritize my responsibilities between school, motherhood, and a full-time job. It wasn’t easy—I definitely dropped the ball more than once in one of those areas. But I’m proud to have finished my first year with straight As, new friendships, and a much deeper understanding of public health and behavioral science.
Q: Was there anything that surprised you?
One thing that surprised me was that our professors didn’t make space to discuss how the federal administration’s budget cuts and changes might impact our field. That felt like a missed opportunity for important dialogue.
Q: What’s next for you this summer?
For now, I’m mentally preparing for two summer classes and looking forward to starting my internship!
