Q&A With Hybrid MPH Student: Kennedy Price

Q: What’s the workload really like? How many hours a week do you usually spend on classes and assignments? Can you actually work while pursuing my MPH? How do you balance it if you do?

A: The hybrid MPH program at Dartmouth is truly designed for working professionals. I’ll admit, I was initially skeptical—many graduate programs claim to accommodate busy professionals but don’t always follow through. However, Dartmouth delivers on this promise. The program is structured exceptionally well, allowing students to balance coursework with demanding careers. My cohort includes physicians, residents, dentists, healthcare executives, mental health professionals, and early-career professionals, and I’ve yet to hear anyone struggle with managing their schedule.  

Personally, I work full-time as a Clinical Trial Coordinator while also supporting two research studies as a Graduate Research Assistant at Dartmouth. On top of that, I’m studying for the MCAT. Despite these commitments, I’m still able to maintain a healthy balance between work, school, and personal time—something I greatly appreciate! 

In terms of coursework, the faculty are very transparent about expectations. Each course lasts between three and five weeks and follows a consistent structure, with clear deadlines and a predictable workload. Most assignments are available in advance, allowing students to plan ahead within reason. Additionally, professors often provide an estimate of how much time assignments will take each week. On average, I spend about four to six hours per week on lecture preparation and assignments, plus an hour and a half of live class time on Zoom. The flexibility and organization of the program make it manageable, even with a busy schedule!

Q: What kind of internships or hands-on experiences did you get to do/are you doing?

A: People often say that you get out of Dartmouth as much as you put in, and as a Hybrid MPH student, I’ve found that to be absolutely true! Beyond my experiences outside of Dartmouth, I’ve had the opportunity to support two research studies as a Graduate Research Assistant. One is a mixed-methods study examining mental health outcomes in postpartum patients with pelvic organ prolapse, and the other is a qualitative study focused on the equitable expansion of doula services in New Hampshire. These experiences have been incredibly rewarding, allowing me to apply my public health training in meaningful ways.

Q:  How supportive are the professors?

A: The professors at Dartmouth are truly outstanding! They are not only knowledgeable and engaging, but also incredibly supportive and accommodating. As a Hybrid MPH student, these qualities were especially important to me when choosing a graduate program. The faculty genuinely care about their students' success, providing thoughtful feedback, mentorship, and flexibility to accommodate the demands of a hybrid learning environment. Whether through virtual office hours, one-on-one meetings, or engaging discussions during lectures and Intensive Weeks, they go above and beyond to ensure students feel supported and challenged in their academic and professional growth.

Q: Did you have public health or healthcare experience before applying? How important is that?

A: Yes, I had public health experience before applying, but I wouldn’t let a lack of experience deter anyone from submitting an application. Many of my classmates come from diverse backgrounds, including those who are newer to the field of public health. What truly matters is a passion for public health, a willingness to learn, and a drive to make an impact. The program is designed to support students at all levels, providing the foundational knowledge and skills needed to thrive in the field.

Q: Did you apply to the program right out of undergrad or did you spend some time working before?

A: I applied immediately after undergrad, but my cohort includes individuals from a wide range of backgrounds. Some came straight from college like me, while others have years—or even decades—of experience in healthcare, research, policy, and other fields. This diversity creates a rich learning environment where we can all gain new perspectives from each other’s experiences!

Q: What do you plan to do with your degree/what are your career goals?

A: Long-term, I aspire to pursue a career in medicine, likely as an OBGYN, where I can integrate my clinical research experience, public health education, and professional background to become a well-rounded physician dedicated to addressing health disparities. Beyond clinical practice, I aim to establish birthing centers and postpartum retreats, drawing on my experience as a birth and postpartum doula and future physician to create supportive, holistic spaces for maternal care. By bridging the gap between medicine and public health, I hope to advocate for equitable global maternal health care and drive systemic improvements that enhance outcomes for underserved communities.

Q: What is your favorite memory in the program so far?

A: Without a doubt, the Intensive Weeks have been the highlight of my program experience thus far. While the online class environment is great, nothing compares to the opportunity to explore the Upper Valley and connect with classmates and faculty in-person. My cohort is filled with an incredible group of individuals with diverse backgrounds and experiences, and I truly enjoy learning from each of them. After every Intensive Week, I find myself eagerly counting down days until the next one! 

Q: What are the on-campus weeks like? 

A: The on-campus weeks are an incredibly enriching and immersive experience! They are action-packed with networking opportunities, professional development workshops, lectures, seminars, and sessions that both wrap up courses from the current term and introduce material for the next. While the schedule is full, it’s a great balance of academic rigor and relationship-building. My favorite part is having the opportunity to connect with professors and faculty outside the classroom and spending quality time with my classmates. These weeks truly strengthen our sense of community and make the hybrid experience even more rewarding!

POSTED 4/2/2025 AT 11:04 AM IN #hybridmph #mph #q&a