Taylor Levy is pursuing a doctoral degree in Health Promotion & Behavioral Sciences and has served in the Texas SOPHE Board as the Graduate Student Representative for the past year. Taylor brings to her role a passion for improving dietary behaviors in underserved communities and a commitment to advancing public health education and promotion. 

Q) Can you tell us about your journey into public health and what inspired you to pursue a graduate degree in this field?

My journey into public health began with a strong interest in improving dietary behaviors, particularly in underserved communities. During my B.S. in Nutrition, I developed a deep passion for educating individuals and communities on how informed choices can lead to healthier lifestyles. I realized that to make a more meaningful impact, I needed to broaden my focus, which led me to pursue an M.S. in Public Health Education and Promotion, and now, a doctoral degree in Health Promotion & Behavioral Sciences. My passion for working with communities to improve dietary habits—and ultimately their health outcomes—continues to drive and inspire me to expand my knowledge and skills in this field.

Q) How do you balance your responsibilities as a graduate student and other aspects of your life?

Balancing life as a graduate student definitely has its challenges, but I’ve found that setting priorities makes all the difference. Creating a routine that fits my coursework, research, and teaching responsibilities helps me stay on track. I always make sure to carve out time for self-care—whether it’s working out, kayaking, or hiking—which keeps me energized and grounded. Staying organized and mindful of how I manage my time allows me to juggle everything while keeping my goals front and center.

Q) How important do you think mentorship is for students in the public health field, and how have you benefited from it?

Mentorship is incredibly important in public health, especially for students navigating complex subjects and exploring career paths. I’ve been fortunate to have amazing mentors who’ve helped me through research challenges, provided valuable career advice, and boosted my confidence as I work toward becoming a public health leader. Their support has been essential in identifying my goals and staying focused on what truly matters. Mentorship really can shape both academic and professional growth such as developing abstracts, research studies, and publications. It’s always a good idea to engage with your professors and ask questions—they genuinely appreciate it when students show interest and make an effort to connect. Being curious and inquisitive is one of the best ways to build relationships with professors and colleagues in the public health field.

Q) What role does Texas SOPHE play in supporting graduate students and young professionals in public health?

Texas SOPHE is a fantastic resource for graduate students and early-career professionals. It offers networking opportunities, which are so valuable for building connections in the public health field. Through conferences, workshops, and mentorship programs, Texas SOPHE provides a platform for students to learn from experts, share their research, and stay up to date with the latest public health trends and topic areas. As someone involved with the membership team, I’ve seen firsthand how it fosters a supportive community, helping young professionals grow and advance in their careers.