Sophie smiling

Sophie Waugh

Master of Public Health (MPH)
Undergraduate Clemson University

Biography

Why did you choose the Brown University School of Public Health?

I chose the Brown University School of Public Health because of the flexibility to tailor my MPH to my interests and career goals, along with the newly redesigned curriculum’s strong focus on quantitative and causal methods. I was also drawn to Brown’s location and proximity to major public health and life sciences hubs like Boston and New York City.


What makes Brown's program different from other programs you considered?

Brown’s small cohort size creates a welcoming, non-competitive environment where students can build relationships with their classmates and faculty. I was also drawn to Brown’s adaptability, particularly its willingness to evolve in response to the changing needs of public health and feedback from the field.
 

What do you enjoy most about your program?

What I enjoy most about my program is the professors. It is so clear that they genuinely care about both their students and the field of public health, and they are invested in helping their students succeed.

What is your academic area of interest and why?

I’m interested in pharmacoepidemiology and clinical trials, particularly in the development and evaluation of vaccines and other therapeutics. I hope to use these methods in the future to help advance effective treatments and make them more accessible to the people who need them most. 


What are your postgraduate goals/plans?

After completing my MPH, I plan to pursue a career in industry focusing on pharmacoepidemiology, clinical research, and real-world evidence. I’m particularly interested in working on vaccines and other therapeutics aimed at treating and preventing infectious diseases. 


Why Providence?

I love Providence for its welcoming community, great food options, and access to so many different experiences in New England. It’s close to the ocean, Newport, Block Island, Boston, and a variety of other great day-trip destinations, making it an exciting place to live while still feeling like a smaller and less intimidating city.


What advice would you give to a prospective applicant?

Trust your instincts and follow your passions. They will lead you in the right direction when making a decision about where to pursue your degree. Logistically, start your personal statements early and have people with different perspectives read them over. Getting things done early and giving yourself time to revise will save you a lot of stress later on!