Meet Shae Nicolaisen: Inspiring Student of Public Health at Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School

Meet Shae Nicolaisen

Degree Program: MSPH
Area of Interest: Child and Adolescent Health
Entry Year: 2023
Hometown: Phoenix, Arizona
Previous Degrees: BS in Biology and BA in Global Health from Duke University
Fun Fact: I competed as a swimmer for 15 years, including at the 2016 Olympic Trials.

What sparked your interest in public health?

My journey into public health began in college. I loved science, but my first course in global health opened my eyes. In that class, I recognized how public health can tackle deep-rooted health issues. It became clear that I wanted to work on creating fair health solutions for everyone, especially underserved communities worldwide.

Why the Bloomberg School of Public Health?

I chose the Bloomberg School for its wide-ranging approach to public health. The school’s focus on research, advocacy, program implementation, and evaluation stood out to me. I was inspired by faculty members who are leaders in the field. I felt this school would help me grow both academically and professionally, equipping me for a successful public health career.

Why join the Department of Population, Family, and Reproductive Health?

The Department of Population, Family, and Reproductive Health drew me in because of its emphasis on child health. I was excited to study topics like research methods and program evaluation while honing in on child health. The faculty’s reputation for innovative work was also a huge motivating factor for me.

The course changed my view from focusing on what people lack to recognizing their strengths.

What has been a memorable experience in PFRH?

A standout experience was the course titled “Children in Crisis: An Asset-Based Approach to Working with Vulnerable Youth” led by Dr. Terri Powell and Dr. Beth Marshall. This course transformed my thinking, shifting my focus from deficits to strengths in public health. I especially appreciated the local youth organizations that shared how they positively impact their communities using these principles. The class helped me see how strengths-based approaches can lead to real change for vulnerable populations.

What are you doing in your field placement?

This summer, I’m thrilled to be a Global Health Established Field Placement awardee and a Bloomberg Center for Public Innovation Summer Scholar in Fortaleza, Brazil. I’m working with the city government’s Research and Planning Institute (Ipplan) to conduct a survey on the nutrition and dietary quality of youth aged 15 to 29. The results will inform a policy proposal aimed at improving their dietary habits. Additionally, I’m a research assistant for two BSPH centers, where I help manage data for a study on Indigenous health and assist with evaluating a vaccination program in Zambia.

What are your goals after graduation?

After graduating, I want to focus on two main goals. First, I aim to develop strategies that reshape health systems to better support individuals throughout their lives. Second, I hope to apply evidence-based practices to drive significant changes in health policies. My ultimate dream is to create impactful research that helps marginalized communities thrive while advocating for their needs. I’m excited about the journey ahead and the possibilities it holds.

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