School of Public Health
Anna Gretz
Master of Public Health (MPH)
I am Anna Gretz, currently pursuing a PhD in Epidemiology & Biostatistics with a concentration in Epidemiology, set to graduate in May 2026. I also attended the University of Memphis for my Bachelor of Science in Health Studies in May 2018, followed by my Master of Public Health in Environmental Health in May 2020.
Returning to the University of Memphis School of Public Health was an easy decision for me. Its comprehensive curriculum offers hands-on experience and theoretical knowledge that has profoundly shaped my career. Since my undergraduate internship at the Shelby County Health Department, I have worked in roles within Population Health, COVID-19 Response, Environmental Health & Food Safety, Ambient Air Monitoring, and the Office of Performance. From conducting environmental field inspections to managing projects in quality improvement and accreditation, my experiences reinforce my commitment to data-driven solutions in enhancing public health systems and the built environment.
A significant highlight from my master's program was travelling internationally to research agricultural practices and air quality in Haiti. This experience broadened my understanding of how social determinants of health contribute to health disparities and resource accessibility. It also underscored the significance of cultural context in health interventions and the impact of the built environment on health outcomes, both globally and locally.
The University of Memphis distinguishes itself through its unwavering commitment to inclusivity and support for students from diverse backgrounds. As someone who has faced physical challenges due to scoliosis, including undergoing spinal surgery twice during my academic journey, I can attest to the genuine care and accommodation provided by faculty and staff. Additionally, as a late-diagnosed person on the autism spectrum, my journey highlights the importance of inclusive education and the critical role of support systems in fostering academic and professional success.