May 20, 2025

For Disha S, stepping into public health began at the intersection of clinical care and social consciousness. With a foundation in dentistry, she witnessed how oral health outcomes were not just shaped by clinical expertise, but by the broader social, behavioral, and economic conditions patients lived in. That experience sparked a deeper realization and a new path.

“I witnessed firsthand how health outcomes are deeply influenced by broader social determinants,” she reflects. “This realization sparked my transition from a clinical oral health professional to a public health practitioner committed to addressing health disparities at a systemic level.”

Now a Master of Public Health (MPH) student in Epidemiology at the Dornsife School of Public Health, Disha is doing exactly that. Through her multifaceted roles and experiences, she’s weaving together academic rigor, community engagement, and a strong commitment to health equity.

Disha is currently a Research Assistant with the Health Equity Advancement Lab (HEAL) Lab where she works on the TIARAS Project. The project is a collaboration with Prevention Point Philadelphia, a community-based study that centers harm reduction and public health interventions for high-risk populations. It’s a hands-on opportunity to apply what she’s learned in class to real-world research that makes an impact.

“In class, we often discussed the importance of understanding health disparities, communicating with empathy, and staying grounded in the communities we serve. I found myself using those lessons every day,” shares Disha. “These experiences helped me build confidence in connecting with people from different backgrounds and reminded me that public health is just as much about listening and trust as it is about data or interventions.”

Additionally, Disha serves as a Collective Resilience Fellow for Dornsife, where she advocates for mental health awareness and inclusive spaces on campus. Whether through peer engagement campaigns, campus events, or connecting students to resources, she’s working to break down stigma and build a more supportive culture.

“I work to foster environments where individuals feel empowered to share their experiences, access critical resources, and support one another through difficult times,” she shares. “My goal is to ensure that all students feel safe, heard, and connected, especially during moments of vulnerability.”

Balancing leadership, research, advocacy, and academics means Disha has a busy schedule. As President of the Student Government Organization (SGO) and a member of the Maternal and Child Health Student Organization (MCHSO), she has developed an appreciation for time management and self-care.

For students with similar commitments, Disha shares:

“Learning how to prioritize tasks, set boundaries, and be intentional with my time became essential. I often found myself needing to shift gears quickly—whether it was preparing for a presentation, organizing an event, or contributing to a research project.”

And for students considering choosing Dornsife to pursue public health, Disha shares why it was the right place for her:

“I chose Dornsife because it offers more than just a degree, it provides an ecosystem of support, opportunity, and growth. From the very beginning, I was drawn to how deeply invested the faculty are in student success, not only academically but personally and professionally.”

“What also makes Dornsife and Drexel special is the vibrant student life and the abundance of student organizations. There is truly something for everyone, and what makes it even more meaningful is the strong support the university offers to these groups. Being part of these communities not only brings joy and connection but also leadership opportunities and experiences that extend far beyond the classroom.

Looking ahead, Disha is focused on maximizing her Applied Practical Experience (APE) and continuing to create change that’s community-rooted and equity-driven before graduation in 2026.

“I believe it’s essential to use my education in meaningful ways—applying both the skills and knowledge I’ve gained to support communities and create change where it’s most needed.

Learn more about the MPH