Mariah Bridges Varner chose GSU’s MPH program not just for its academic rigor, but also for hands-on opportunities to work directly with community members and organizations.
Name: Mariah Bridges Varner
Hometown: Marietta, Georgia
Undergraduate degree and institution: Bachelor of Science in Exceptional Education, Lee University
Expected date of graduation: August 2025
Why did you choose the Georgia State School of Public Health?
I wanted to study public health at an institution that provided lots of hands-on opportunities. While academic rigor is important, I knew GSU would provide me with opportunities to work directly with vulnerable populations and see public health in action.
Which MPH concentration did you choose, and why?
I chose Health Management and Policy. I consider myself to be a natural lead, and I feel management and policy is a balanced concentration in that it still involves research, communication and education, but centers itself on actionable change.
What has been your favorite class in the SPH so far, and why?
I would say “Comparative Health Systems.” I really enjoyed learning about the different strengths and weaknesses of other nations’ health systems and how their health systems are impacted by cultural variations and needs. I feel looking to international examples, rather than getting stuck on the same ideas, is a great way to inspire innovation and culturally sensitive healthcare.
What advice would you give undergraduate students considering pursing an MPH at Georgia State?
I would say to consider your true passions and motivations for entering public health. Public health is a very hands-on field, and GSU provides lots of excellent hands-on opportunities. In my opinion, the best way to optimize an MPH is to engage in extra opportunities and throw maximum effort into gaining experience.
Tell us about your extracurricular involvement.
I worked as a jumpstart team lead with AmeriCorps during the first year of my program. I also attended the Ghana study abroad program in the Summer of 2024 and worked with several other students on the Women’s Health team. Additionally, I interned with the Research and Community Engagement Team at USofCare and as a policy intern with Georgia Alcohol Prevention Alliance. Since then, I have joined the GAPA board as the Director of Policy Communications as well as the Healthy Mothers, Healthy Babies Coalition of Georgia Maternal Mental Health Task Force.
What’s your favorite place on campus, and why?
I love the Rec Center! The walking track on the third floor is such a great way to get exercise in between classes!
What’s your career aspiration?
I want to work as a community engagement specialist with a health department or nonprofit organization.