MPH Internship Profiles – Payton Dean

Concentration: Health Administration

Field Placement Site: Rural Opportunity Institute, Rocky Mount NC

In my internship we have had the chance to conduct two pilot studies involving individuals that were experiencing high stress and behavioral problems. The pilot studies involve a bio-feedback system that encourages controlled breathing techniques to calm one’s nervous system when experiencing stress. We have launched one pilot at Pattillo Middle School in Tarboro and recently in the Edgecombe County Detention Center. When I am not assisting in program development I have had the chance to explore grant writing, planning/organizing training sessions and developing materials to make processes at ROI replicable for other organizations wanting to achieve the same goals.

Advice for future MPH students: Don’t be afraid to reach out and ask questions! The professors in this program are extremely helpful and only want you to succeed. Stay organized and work hard!”.