A Wake-Up Call for a Community
I remember hearing a story from my grandmother, a Flint resident, that really hit home for me. One morning, she went to make her coffee and noticed something alarming. The tap water, which she used daily, had a strange color and an unpleasant smell. At first, she dismissed it, but when her coffee tasted bitter and the tea she brewed turned black, it became clear that something was seriously wrong. It was a wake-up call for her, as she soon learned that her water wasn’t safe to drink. This personal experience highlighted the severity of the water crisis in Flint, Michigan, and its profound impact on our community.
Facing the Fear
The Flint water crisis was more than just an inconvenience; it was a source of deep fear and uncertainty. For many residents, the basic necessity of clean water became a significant stressor. The immediate need for bottled water put a financial strain on families as prices soared. More troubling was the unknown long-term health effects of consuming lead-contaminated water. This challenge disrupted our daily lives and left many questioning how it had impacted our health, our behavior, and the future of our community.
Amid the chaos, there were remarkable efforts to bring about change. I returned home for an internship and became actively involved with local organizations working to address the crisis. We didn’t just provide immediate relief; we were also engaged in repairing homes and offering programs aimed at rebuilding trust within the community. This experience was a powerful reminder of the importance of public health in not just treating individual health issues but in supporting and healing entire communities.
It's important for our community to have Christians involved in their lives because we are called to go out and be a witness to people, to be an example to people.” - Grant Roe, Sarah's Dad
A Change in Direction
Growing up, I had always dreamed of becoming a doctor. From junior high through high school, I was deeply passionate about medicine. However, when I began my studies at Bob Jones University, I was introduced to the field of public health—an area I hadn’t considered before. A conversation with Dr. Egli about the Public Health program caught my interest. The program’s hands-on and interactive approach seemed like a perfect fit for my aspirations, leading me to shift my focus from medicine to public health.
The Role of SCOPE
Pursuing a Master of Public Health degree through SCOPE has been a transformative experience. The flexibility allowed me to balance work, studies, and staying close to my family in Flint. This balance was crucial, as it enabled me to apply what I was learning directly to my community.
Affordability was also a big concern for me, especially after watching my mom step back from her job due to some serious health issues. When I discovered the Master of Public Health program, I was relieved. It was incredibly affordable, and the online format meant I could continue working while pursuing my degree without overwhelming financial stress. The program’s structure was ideal for someone like me who needed to juggle multiple responsibilities.
SCOPE’s support was exceptional. Despite being an online student, I felt a strong sense of community. The professors were always accessible and responsive, which was vital to my success. This support helped me manage my responsibilities and excel in my studies. The interactive nature of the program made learning engaging and applicable to real-world challenges.
Building Trust and Restoring Hope
Public health involves more than addressing physical health; it’s about rebuilding trust and hope within communities. One of the key lessons I learned from my studies was the importance of understanding the culture and needs of those I serve. In Flint, this meant listening to people’s fears and working to restore the trust that had been eroded by the water crisis. The education and skills I gained through my master’s degree were instrumental in preparing me for a leadership role in guiding my community toward recovery.
My journey with SCOPE has been deeply rewarding. The Flint water crisis exposed me to the broader impact of public health, and the program equipped me with the education and confidence to make a meaningful difference. The Christian worldview embedded in the program has reinforced my belief that every person I serve is made in the image of God and deserves compassion. As I approach the end of my degree, I feel prepared to contribute positively to my community.
Looking Ahead
This journey has been both challenging and fulfilling. SCOPE has provided me with the tools and knowledge necessary to positively impact Flint. As I continue my work, I am committed to using my education to help my community heal and thrive. With the strong foundation I’ve built through my Public Health degree, I am confident in my ability to lead and support Flint’s transformation toward a better future in whatever role God provides for me.
“With my daughter coming back and being an intern, she's been able to work with some of those people who are working hard to make things better.”
Grant Roe - Sarah's Dad