With winter settling over the Upper Valley, students in the Hybrid Master of Public Health (MPH) program returned to Dartmouth’s campus for the December Intensive Learning Week session, a hallmark of the 22-month program that brings together online students from across the country for a rich academic experience.

The week opened on Monday morning with welcoming remarks from Carrie Colla, PhD, who set the tone for five days of collaborative learning, professional growth, and community building. Following the kickoff, first- and second-year students dispersed into their respective schedules, which were filled with course sessions, group work, and faculty engagement that aligned with each cohort’s academic trajectory.

Monday evening brought the S’mores and Hot Cocoa Social, where students, faculty, and staff gathered outdoors to enjoy warm conversation by the fire pit. For many, it was a moment to reconnect with classmates they typically see on screen and to settle into the rhythm of the week ahead.

Throughout the week, Geisel hosted activities that invited students to explore campus and take time for well-being. Students joined tours of the Hood Museum of Art and the Baker Library Bell Tower, and attended a guided yoga session and campus walk.

A signature event of the December session, the Applied Practice Experience (APE) Poster Fair and Celebration , took place on Wednesday, December 10, at the Class of 1953 Commons. From 5:00 to 6:00 p.m., Hybrid MPH students in the Class of 2026 stood beside their posters to present the real-world public health projects they pursued throughout the year, answering questions and engaging in thoughtful discussions with attendees. The fair transitioned into a networking and community celebration from 6:00 to 7:30 p.m., where posters remained on display as students, faculty, staff, and guests mingled over light hors d’oeuvres and festive refreshments.

“The December Intensive Learning Week is a true highlight of the academic year for our students, faculty, and staff. Watching students present their research at the Poster Fair and step confidently into the role of subject-matter experts is inspiring. The Poster Fair fosters a vibrant exchange of knowledge, with students teaching and learning from one another in ways that strengthen and elevate the entire academic community.” Megan Read, Director of the Online/Hybrid MPH Program ​​​​​

The Poster Fair highlighted the breadth and impact of students’ work, which spanned health systems, equity initiatives, community-based interventions, data analysis, and more. It also offered an opportunity for peers and mentors to honor the dedication that students bring to their applied practice experiences.

By the end of the week, students departed Hanover with strengthened connections, new insights, and renewed momentum for the remainder of their MPH journey. The December Intensive Learning Week once again affirmed the value of bringing community together and reminded students and faculty of the shared purpose that drives their public health education and practice.

Written by: Mia Soucy