CONCLUSION

My work in health education began long before entering graduate school. It started with a personal commitment to improving my own well-being while juggling motherhood, demanding schedules, and the pressures of military family life. Focusing on nutrition, movement, and rest helped me feel stronger, clearer, and more capable in every area of life. That experience sparked a desire to support others who felt overwhelmed, confused, or unsure where to begin. Over time, it became clear that the challenges people faced were not simply individual struggles. They were symptoms of a larger systemic gap in health knowledge and access, which strengthened my commitment to serving broader communities, not just individuals.

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Working one on one with clients, teaching classes, and supporting service members through the Department of Defense showed me how meaningful personalized guidance can be. Those experiences also revealed how health behaviors are shaped by environments, culture, social norms, and the messages people receive daily. As my scope of practice expanded, so did my understanding of what it means to communicate health in a way that is culturally sensitive, emotionally supportive, and accessible to diverse audiences. Graduate studies at the University of Florida helped translate these real-world observations into evidence-based practice through coursework in health communication, social marketing, emotional health, and program planning. Each course strengthened my ability to design materials, interpret research, and build interventions that speak to real people in real situations.

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This portfolio represents the culmination of that growth. The projects included required clear messaging, audience segmentation, thoughtful design, and a deeper understanding of how to motivate behavior change. Applying social marketing principles taught me the importance of meeting people where they are, reducing barriers, and creating materials that honor both the science and the lived experiences of the population. Through each assignment, my confidence grew in blending creativity with strategy and ensuring every message had a purpose beyond aesthetics.

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As I step toward my career as a health educator, my focus remains rooted in helping people feel capable and supported. Whether working individually or designing campaigns for larger communities, the goal is the same: to communicate health in ways that matter and to create environments where change feels possible. My experiences at UF have shaped my ability to think critically, design intentionally, and approach health education with empathy and clarity.

Looking ahead, continued growth as a professional will involve staying aligned with current research, evolving cultural trends, and emerging communication strategies. Health education is an ever-changing field, and remaining adaptable is essential for reaching diverse populations. My commitment is to keep refining my skills, broadening my understanding, and contributing to work that uplifts the well-being of others.

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At the heart of this philosophy are the values that guide my approach: to educate with clarity, to equip with practical tools, and to empower people to take ownership of their health. These principles anchor my work and reflect the lessons learned throughout this program. They remind me that meaningful health education is not just about information. It is about connection, purpose, and helping individuals and communities feel rooted, capable, and confident in their journey toward healthier lives.