My experience as a Health Justice Scholar - Leah Post

I’ve always been interested in health equity, and the Pitt genetic counseling program does a great job integrating conversations about access and equity into the curriculum. But the School of Public Health also has really excellent programs you can get involved with if you too are passionate about this topic. Originally, I had wanted to pursue one of the many unique certificate programs the School has to offer, but I realized I was not going to be able to satisfy the credit requirements (happy to discuss this if anyone has questions). When I learned about the Health Justice Scholars program in the fall, it seemed like a more flexible opportunity to explore my interests. 

I applied in early December for the Spring 2026 Health Justice Scholars cohort, and after a relaxed interview, was invited to join the program. The group is led by some really experienced and passionate faculty from the Center for Health Equity and accepts a new cohort of ~10 students each semester. 

The requirements for the program are relaxed; we met as a group once every two weeks to discuss relevant events in the area and at Pitt, to talk about changes to public health in this country, and to work on a semester-long group project. I think I probably spent only an hour on outside “work” for this program each week. What I really enjoyed about this program was getting to chat (and complain!) about public-health and equity-related concerns with like-minded students and staff. I got to read journal articles I wouldn’t have found on my own and hear new perspectives from students in different programs and departments. I also really valued the mentorship of the faculty leadership. And while a stipend isn’t publicized or guaranteed as part of the program (we all know funding for equity-focused programs are under threat), program leadership went to bat for us and secured $500 stipends for each individual in my cohort. 

If you’re passionate about health equity and having important conversations with students who will one day lead the field of public health, the Health Justice Scholars program is a great chance to get involved. It doesn’t require an enormous amount of outside work, but you will have really fulfilling discussions about health equity and learn from experienced professionals working in the field, trying to create change. If this specific program isn’t for you, I encourage you to find another group that fits your interests! Pitt has so many clubs and student groups to choose from, and while you’re here paying tuition, I hope you open yourself to all the incredible opportunities this school has to offer.