Meet our Students

Kara Nelson Hometown: Fredericksburg, VA
Background:  James Madison University, 2007, BS in Anthropology
Concentration: Biological, Minor in Geographic Science
MPH MPH Year and Concentration: 1st year, Generalist Track
What I like about Richmond: I love all the different food places to eat in Richmond, yummy!!!!!!!
What I enjoy about the MPH Program: This is a great environment to be in a Public Health program.  We are on the MCV campus and therefore surrounded by medical professionals in every field.  We are also located right next to the Department of Health which gives our program a great advantage over others.
Email:  nelsonka@vcu.edu

Mark Killebrew  Hometown: Louisville, Kentucky 
Background: Associate’s in Applied Science in Nursing from Jefferson Community College, Louisville, KY in 1992,  Bachelor’s of Science in Nursing from Spalding University in Louisville, KY in 1996, Master’s of Science in Nursing from DePaul University in Chicago, IL in 2000 
MPH Year and Concentration in the program: I am just completing my first semester in the MPH program, my concentration is in the Generalist track, graduation shall be in the spring of 2010 
What I like about Richmond: I love the rich history, the architecture of the old buildings/homes, the neighborhoods, parks, the character of the city and especially, the people. 
What I enjoy about the MHP program: The professors are top notch and the university offers a quality education that is both interesting and relevant. 
Future Plans: As a Public Health Nurse in the U.S. Army Nurse Corps, I look forward to using the skills/knowledge I received at VCU to implement health promotion/disease prevention policies to enhance the quality of life of those I serve.  

It has been a joy getting to know my classmates, they are all class people and it has been an adventure learning about the many aspects of public health. 
Email: killebrewmc@vcu.edu 

Conschetta Wright Hometown: Alabama
Background: Salem College, 2004, BA-Mathematics and Spanish; Virginia Commonwealth University, 2007, BS-Nursing (Accelerated program)
MPH Year and Concentration in the program: 2nd year, Epidemiology Track
What I enjoy about the MPH program: Because we are a small program I find that the professors are accessible for asking questions and getting guidance for the internship and the research project.
Future plans: Right now I’m in the process of applying for a few epi fellowships.   Hopefully I will complete one of those programs.   Then I plan on pursuing a doctoral degree
Email: wrightcr2@vcu.edu

Dr. Sameer Arora Hometown: New-Delhi, India
Background: Medical school from Mumbai, India, Degree earned MBBS, 2004
MPH Year and Concentration in the program: 2008 MPH Student, EPI Track
What I like about Richmond: Beautiful city, Amazing malls, Awesome Weather, Rich heritage, scenic Parks and a large culturally diverse population is what Richmond all about.
What I enjoy about the MPH program: VCU provides great opportunity to learn in one of the country’s best academic environments coupled with great practical and research experience.
Future plans: To serve the cause of public health and work for the betterment of those who are still deprived of their right to health.
Email: aroras4@vcu.edu

Jennifer Barber Hometown: Newport News, VA
Background: James Madison University, 2004, BS in Health Science with a concentration in Public Health Education
MPH Year and Concentration in the program: 1st year, Generalist Track
What I like about Richmond: I love all of the unique restaurants and shops that are around Richmond. There is always something fun to do whether it is going out to a restaurant downtown or visiting Belle Island to enjoy the outdoors.
What I enjoy about the MPH program: I enjoy the sense of community in our department – You are truly able to learn about a variety of topics through talking with your classmates about their experiences. There is a great selection of classes and the times are convenient if you want to work while you take classes. The professors are great and genuinely care about enhancing your understanding of Public Health.
Future Plans: I am really interested in health education and promotion and would love to work in a college setting that allows me to plan programs and work with students to enhance their knowledge of health topics. I can see myself working in a variety of public health settings so it is difficult to tell at the moment!