Student spotlight: Lauren Martinelli (MSc in Occupational and Public Health)
Lauren Martinelli came to TMU with a Bachelor of Health Sciences, specializing in Human Health. Now she’s pursuing a Master of Science in Occupational and Public Health, researching people-powered active transportation in children and youth, and preparing for a career in research and policy.
Why did you choose TMU’s master’s program?
I like how it combines both course-based and thesis-based study, and the emphasis on interdisciplinary learning. I was excited for the chance to learn from and conduct research alongside professors and professionals in the field who have diverse backgrounds and experiences in both occupational and public health.
What is your thesis research on?
I’m interested in how the built environment impacts people’s health on an individual level — and more specifically, how road environments can encourage or inhibit active transportation (such as walking, cycling) as an important physical activity.
For my thesis, I’m collaborating with Dr. Kyle Wilson at Wellington-Dufferin-Guelph Public Health, to examine what type of environments facilitate active school transportation in children and youth in the City of Guelph before and after the COVID-19 pandemic.
How is the program equipping you for a career?
Courses in the program — like Research Methodology and Study Design, and also Data Analysis for Research — have been incredibly important in preparing me with research skills for my future career. I’m now having the opportunity to apply this knowledge in my thesis work.
Additional internships through my supervisor, Dr. Linda Rothman, have also been integral in expanding my understanding and further helping me expand my skills.
Most importantly, through this program and my supervisor, I’ve had the opportunity to collaborate with individuals from municipalities and public health agencies. I’ve learned valuable lessons about work at different organizations and am also making important connections with great folks who work in the field.
What are you enjoying most?
The most rewarding part of the program has been the people I've met and collaborated with. I've formed amazing bonds with and learned so much from others in my cohort, and from faculty members and school administrators. I’ve felt so supported by everyone I’ve met in my time at TMU.
What are your plans after graduation?
I hope to work in policy or as a research assistant or research analyst. I’m excited to explore various areas of public health but I’m particularly interested in the intersection of public health and urban planning and transportation.