Empowering Change: Interns Dive into Public Health Policy & Advocacy with Abigail Corrao

The Advanced Medical & Public Health Internship recently had the privilege of hosting a lecture by Abigail Corrao, a distinguished recent graduate of Georgetown University, who specializes in the intersection of environmental impacts, nutrition, and human health. Abigail’s session on public health policy and advocacy was a highlight of the program, providing interns with critical insights and inspiring them to become change-makers in the field of public health.

Abigail, who majored in Human Science and minored in Public Health, has a rich background in research and policy. Her dedication to understanding the connections between dietary practices and health outcomes has driven her to spearhead an international research project on the Mediterranean diet. Additionally, as the co-founder and Educational Lead of Global Health Governance as Public Service (GHGAPS), she is actively engaged in empowering students to influence global health policies.

The lecture began with an overview of public health policy, emphasizing the importance of evidence-based decision-making in crafting effective health interventions. Abigail shared her journey, detailing how her academic pursuits and research initiatives have shaped her understanding of the complex interplay between environmental factors and human health. 

Abigail then delved into the key components of health advocacy, outlining strategies for engaging stakeholders, crafting persuasive messages, and mobilizing communities. She highlighted the significance of youth engagement in global governance and how programs like GHGAPS are equipping the next generation with the skills needed to drive health policy forward. 

One of the most impactful parts of the lecture was Abigail’s discussion on the Mediterranean diet research project. She explained how this diet, rich in fruits, vegetables, and healthy fats, is linked to numerous health benefits and how advocating for such dietary practices can lead to improved health outcomes on a population level. Her passion for translating research findings into actionable policies resonated deeply with the interns. 

Throughout the session, Abigail encouraged the interns to think critically about the role of policy in shaping health outcomes and the ways they can contribute to this field. She provided practical advice on how to navigate the challenges of policy advocacy, from building coalitions to effectively communicating with policymakers.

The interactive nature of the lecture allowed interns to engage with Abigail, asking questions and discussing their own aspirations in public health. This dialogue not only enriched their understanding of public health policy but also inspired them to consider how they can leverage their skills and knowledge to advocate for healthier communities.

By the end of the session, the interns were equipped with a deeper understanding of public health policy and advocacy, along with the inspiration to pursue their own initiatives. Abigail’s lecture was a transformative experience, empowering the interns to see themselves as future leaders in the field of public health. 

In conclusion, Abigail Corrao’s lecture on public health policy and advocacy was an invaluable addition to the Advanced Medical & Public Health Internship. Her insights, drawn from her extensive research and advocacy work, provided the interns with the tools and inspiration needed to make a meaningful impact in public health. As they continue their journey, they carry with them the knowledge and passion instilled by Abigail’s powerful message: that with dedication and advocacy, they can drive forward initiatives that address key health challenges and create lasting change.