Study Ireland – Stories & Guides from International Students

Mukilan was the 2024 inaugural recipient of the Dr Sheila Boland Scholarship in Public Health, which supported his practicum placement at the University of Arizona Mel and Enid Zuckerman College of Public Health. The scholarship is being awarded each year from 2024 – 2027 to a top-performing MSc Public Health student, thanks to the generosity of UL Foundation Board Member Dr Gerry Boland:

My 8-week practicum in Tucson, made possible by the prestigious Dr. Sheila Boland Scholarship, was nothing short of a whirlwind adventure. As a recipient, this generous award covered everything from airfare to my cozy apartment stay, allowing me to fully immerse myself in the experience. 

My apartment, just a short drive from TFD headquarters, quickly became a cozy retreat. Located in a vibrant neighbourhood, it was a breeze to grab tacos or explore local shops after a long day. Even better, it was a stone’s throw from the breathtaking hiking trails that would soon become my happy place.

The early weeks were a whirlwind of research and collaboration. I dug into studies on firefighter mental health, working with Dr. Haynes’ research team (Adri and Hannah were the best!) to understand the real challenges these brave men and women face. This helped shape our Alcohol Awareness Month campaign, aiming to resonate with their reality.

I even got to help out with the Southern Arizona First Responders Health and Wellness Conference – coordinating with vendors, designing materials, and even writing the emcee script! Seeing hundreds of first responders gather for education and support was inspiring. 

But the heart of my work was the campaign itself. Crafting newsletters, brainstorming social media content, and planning events with the TFD team, including my awesome colleague Andrew, was all about making the information accurate, engaging, and relevant to firefighters. 

The most impactful moment? Meeting “Lito,” a firefighter who bravely shared his story of overcoming alcohol challenges. His honesty and strength deeply moved me and reminded me of the real human beings we’re trying to help. 

Of course, it wasn’t all work. Exploring Tucson became a favorite pastime. Hiking Tumamoc Hill at sunset, conquering the challenging trails of Sabino Canyon, and even summiting Mount Lemmon at 9,159 feet filled me with a sense of accomplishment that mirrored my professional goals. And the local cuisine? Let’s just say I’ll be dreaming of those Sonoran hotdogs from El Guero Canelo for years to come. 

Key Takeaways 

This internship was a transformative experience. It taught me that public health work is as much about the heart as it is about the head. Understanding the real-world context of people’s lives is essential, and collaboration across fields (like academia and public safety) leads to the most impactful solutions. 

These lessons, along with the practical skills I’ve gained in project management, communication, and resource development, will be invaluable in my future career. 

The official MEZCOPH pin I received at the end of my practicum is a tangible reminder of the impact I can have as a public health advocate. Tucson, the fire service, and everyone I met there left a lasting impression. I’m excited for the future, knowing I’ve gained the tools to make a difference, and I’m forever grateful for the chance to have contributed to a healthier, more resilient Tucson Fire Department.