There are many things that make studying at Texas A&M University’s Environmental and Occupational Health Department (EOH) special. For one, you’re part of the School of Public Health, the largest and #1 public health school in Texas.
But numbers only tell part of the story. The heart of the university lies in its people. You’ll be surrounded by global classmates who are just as motivated as you are, and just as ready to help. Whether you’re teaming up on a project or connecting at a networking event, there’s a real sense of togetherness.
This supportive environment pays off. You’ll leave prepared and in-demand in today’s workforce. For example, the Master of Public Health (MPH) programme has a 95% job placement rate, with graduates earning above-average salaries.
Here’s how three environmental and occupational health students made the most of their journey:
Priyanka Patel, from India, has over five years of clinical experience and worked as a medical officer during the COVID-19 pandemic. Source: Texas A&M University
Priyanka Patel
Priyanka Patel wanted a better understanding of the challenges facing people and communities in protecting and improving their health. That’s what drew the former dentist to EOH. “I like how it integrates fieldwork, systems thinking, and policy analysis for me to become a more holistic health professional,” she says.
It might seem like a big shift from her clinical role, but the EOH gave her the confidence to succeed. “The department-hosted events keep me on top of my coursework and expose me to different perspectives,” she says.
It was the same in classrooms. “During a group assignment on health disparities, my classmates generously shared resources which helped me understand US public health systems better,” she says.
Faculty like Dr. Leslie Cizmas were key as well. “She helped me connect my dental background to environmental health, and her engaging, practical teaching style made complex topics feel accessible,” she says.
Graduating in 2026, Patel plans to contribute to efforts around tobacco, oral cancer, and rural education before applying to medical school. And to future students, she says, “Come with an open mind and a willingness to engage beyond the classroom. There’s plenty of room to grow and make a lasting impact.”
After completing her MPH in 2025, Syeda Sharmin Duza stayed on to pursue the Doctoral (DrPH) with Environmental Health. Source: Texas A&M University
Syeda Sharmin Duza
Since arriving in College Station from Dhaka, Bangladesh in 2021, Syeda Sharmin Duza has found more than an education. “The sense of belonging has been incredible,” she says. “Every person I reached out to was incredibly kind.”
Between getting involved as a Graduate Assistant Teaching (GAT) and joining study groups, workshops, and departmental seminars, there was one project that stood out the most: designing a disaster response plan with classmates. “It really showed me how collaboration enhances outcomes in public health,” she says.
Of course, her professors have been just as important. “I was surprised by how approachable and committed they were,” she says. Dr. Mark Benden’s passion for ergonomics and workplace health inspired her to think creatively about sustainable, healthier environments. And she has nothing but praise for Dr. Anabel Rodriguez. “Her work on health disparities speaks to what I care about,” she says. “I could see how research can directly impact communities.”
Now well-versed in risk assessment, data analysis, infection control, and health communication, Duza is ready to work as a public health researcher and educator in global biosafety and pandemic preparedness. As for her advice to future students? “Join study groups, seek out research opportunities, and don’t hesitate to connect with faculty,” she says. “Texas A&M is a nurturing, empowering space that prepares you to lead.”
For Hannah Sarah Chukwu, what truly set Texas A&M apart was the Aggie network. Source: Texas A&M University
Hannah Sarah Chukwu
Hannah Sarah Chukwu first learned of Texas A&M during her undergraduate years in Nigeria. When she relocated to the US in 2020 and had to choose a university, it became her top choice. “As an immigrant navigating a new system, I knew I needed community, connection, and support,” she says. “The Aggie network offered all of that and more.”
From resume workshops to networking events, the Office of Graduate Student Services equipped her with tools for career success. Equally impactful was the Student Veteran Association. “Connecting with others who were balancing academics and service made a big difference,” she says. “It reminded me I wasn’t alone.”
Meanwhile, internships, Industry Advisory Board meetings, and practical coursework, taught her to apply theory in real-world situations. “My Industrial Hygiene fieldwork and capstone project taught me to think critically and prioritise human well-being,” she says. Plus, funny enough, the class presentations she once dreaded were what ultimately prepared her for her role today as a 68W Emergency Care Sergeant, where she leads safety briefings daily.
“If I could give one piece of advice it is to invest in learning that lasts,” she says. “Take advantage of EOH’s flexible course options because your GPA or course format won’t matter nearly as much as the knowledge and experience you take with you.”
Elise Olivas spent much of her childhood outdoors, camping and helping on the farm — experiences that taught her the value of protecting the environment and water. Source: Texas A&M University
Elise Olivas
Leaving New Mexico to study at Texas A&M was one of the most difficult decisions Elise Olivas ever had to make. But she knew it was the right one. “The university stood out to me because of its core values: respect, loyalty, integrity, and selfless service,” she says. “I felt at home knowing I’d be attending a university that aligns with my beliefs.”
That sense of belonging quickly translated into academic success. “One key skill I’ve gained is performing risk of bias assessments for systematic reviews,” she says. “It’s helped me think more critically about research and evaluate the reliability and transparency of studies.”
Olivas credits this growth to the support she’s received from faculty. “I’ve gone to more office hours, sent more emails, and received more meaningful feedback than before, all because the people here truly want you to succeed,” she says.
This supportive environment helped Olivas step outside her comfort zone too. One memorable experience came during a group project. “I’ve always been nervous about public speaking. But my group members listened to my concerns and made it clear that we were all in this together,” she says.
Her group not only delivered a successful presentation, but Olivas also received positive feedback from her professor. “I’ll always look back on that moment as a turning point in my personal and academic growth,” she says.
Set to graduate in 2026, Olivas is confident in her future. “My advice to other students is, don’t be afraid to ask questions or put yourself out there,” she says. “The people, the traditions, and the culture at Texas A&M make it a special place. You’ll be supported, you’ll grow, and you’ll be proud to call yourself a member of the Fightin’ Texas Aggie Class of ‘26.”
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