Mathew Kramm IV ’25 Epidemiology
Why did you choose Texas A&M’s School of Public Health?
“I went on Dr. Angela Clendenin’s study abroad when I was still a part of the Wildlife Sciences Department. This study abroad changed my perspective. I decided I wanted to explore the School of Public Health but still focus on my interest in infectious diseases. I started my MPH here, and now I am in the DrPH program.”
What has your experience been like in the program?
“It has been really good so far. In my cohort, everybody is helpful, and the professors are extremely understanding. Dr. Lisako McKyer was amazing as a first semester doctoral mentor. The faculty and staff will work with you to help you develop academically and professionally.
How do you feel this program has helped you prepare for a post-grad career?
“I want to be a professor. This is a dream job for me because the professors have had a profound impact on me, and it would be rewarding to have the same impact on other students. I would like to be part of the A&M system. I have been part of it for a couple years now, and I love being here at the School of Public Health.”
What level of support have you received while in your program?
“Awesome. For the doctoral seminar, Dr. Lisako McKyer was truly inspiring and opened my eyes to new ideas. She also understands what graduate students are going through and acknowledges that we have many responsibilities outside of class as well. Dr. McKyer is concerned with how you are developing as a student in the program. The professors at the School of Public Health are always available for their students. The cohort also is a great support system. Everyone knows everyone and helps each other out.”
What do you think of the coursework?
“The coursework is focused on your specific department but also includes other classes in health policy, environmental health, leadership, and emergency response. The School of Public Health understands that there are many aspects to public health outside of your department and allows for exploration of those subjects through electives as well as core competency classes.
How do you feel you have changed, personally or professionally since the beginning of the program?
“Every single year I notice myself changing. My opinions, my interests, and how I approach things change. As I continue in my academic career, I learn more from different perspectives. Therefore, being part of a cohort is beneficial. You get to collaborate and share ideas with many people from all backgrounds. You meet professors such as Dr. Clendenin and Dr. McKyer who expand your view of public health and allow you to follow your interests.”
What advice would you give someone looking into A&M’s School of Public Health?
“Get close to your cohort. Create meaningful relationships with your professors as they will always be there for you. Your cohort and your professors are going to be your strongest support system. Texas A&M’s School of Public Health thrives on the individual. They are never short of opportunities to develop and are tackling the most prominent public health issues in the United States and the world. Texas A&M’s School of Public Health is full of engaged faculty, staff, and students ready to assist a fellow Aggie in any capacity. When you come here, you really are family.”
What are your plans for the future?
“My dream job would be a faculty position in the School of Public Health teaching the next generation of public health professionals. I would also love to do public health consulting on emergency and disaster management since we have seen the extreme importance in the last few years.”
What has been your favorite thing about the program?
“Getting to know the people in my cohort and my professors. Getting to know my professors opened many opportunities for me, and I am currently a graduate assistant researcher. I enjoyed working in the COVID Operations Center. I have done contact tracing, case investigating and data logging. Other experiences I value are working with the university-wide testing program and completing a study abroad where I learned more about emergency response with public health. I feel I have been able to do many things in a very short amount of time. There is so much opportunity here at A&M to get involved and gain experience.”
Learn more about the Epidemiology Program
