From Combat Engineer to Public Health Leader: Christopher A.’s Journey
Christopher A. grew up in the small Pennsylvania town of Newport, the eldest of three brothers in a close-knit family. Thirty days after graduating high school in 1999, he joined the U.S. Army as a combat engineer. Over the next seven years he served in Germany, California, Washington state, Korea, Kosovo (1999–2000 peacekeeping operations), and Iraq (Operation Iraqi Freedom, 2004–2005). While stationed in California, he completed a program called Tactical Combat Casualty Care that provides medical training focused on treating traumatic injuries.
After leaving the Army in 2006, Christopher worked as an EMT before moving to more stable, higher-paying roles. In 2017, a workplace injury prompted a major life change. During his recovery, he chose to pursue higher education and shift to the ambulatory side of healthcare. He earned an Associate of Science in Medical Assisting and a Certified Phlebotomy Technician certificate from Central Penn College, later becoming a full-time instructor after being promoted to clinical lead at a local hospital group. While teaching, he also earned a bachelor’s degree in healthcare management.
Today, Christopher is working toward his online Master of Public Health (MPH) from Norwich University to further his career and expand his impact on the healthcare field. He spoke with us about his MPH experience and how it’s helping him reach his goals.
What (or who) inspired you to earn your degree? What was the tipping point in your life?
It goes back to my initial decision to attend college. After the company I worked for wouldn’t let me return to work following my injury, I realized I needed to make a major change that would help me achieve long-term success.
What does having a good education mean to you?
It means that when I finish a program, I’m changed for the better and have the knowledge and skills to apply what I’ve learned.
How did you feel before starting your program, and how do you feel now?
I felt apprehensive and had a little imposter syndrome at first. Now I feel like I’m about to accomplish something great and I’m optimistic about what that accomplishment will lead to.
What challenges have you had to overcome during the program?
The biggest recurring challenge is making enough time in my life to give the coursework the attention and focus it deserves.
What has your experience thus far taught you about yourself?
That I’m capable of much more than I believed before attending.
Why did you choose this program over others?
I chose Norwich first because of the school’s reputation, and second because the program can be completed 100% online.
How has the university shown you support?
In every way possible. The support Norwich has offered is phenomenal. Their approach should be studied and employed by other universities.
How will you use your degree, and what impact do you want to have on the world?
My plan is to apply what I’ve learned to develop an undergraduate degree program where I work. I also hope to earn a spot on a research team.
Have you been able to apply what you’ve learned in your program in your career or life? When did you first notice it?
I apply what I’ve learned every day to enhance the classes that I teach. I first noticed it while prepping my courses right after finishing my first term at Norwich.
Is earning your degree worth it? Why or why not?
Absolutely. This degree is going to take me to the next level of my profession.
What advice do you have for future students?
When you decide to pursue a degree, envision what you want your life to look like after you complete school. When you’re struggling or questioning your choice, go back to that vision and refocus on your true goal. The goal isn’t just graduating—it’s applying what you learn to change the world.
Ready to take the next step in your own public health career?
Ready to take the next step in your own public health career? Learn more about the online Master of Public Health program at Norwich University and see how it can help you build the skills, knowledge and leadership experience to make a meaningful impact in your community.