I’m a Public Health Student at UGA
Dedicated to improving community health through prevention, education, and equitable care.
I am a Public Health student at the University of Georgia with a passion for health promotion, disease prevention, and addressing health disparities. Through both academic and clinical experiences, I aim to contribute to meaningful, community-centered health initiatives that improve overall well-being.
About Me
More about my background, passions, and interests
How our experiences dictate our interests
I am a Public Health student at the University of Georgia with a strong interest in health promotion, disease prevention, and improving access to care in underserved communities. Originally from Chile, my background has shaped my perspective on health disparities and the importance of culturally competent care. Experiencing different healthcare systems has given me a deeper understanding of how social, economic, and environmental factors influence health outcomes.
Through my academic training and hands-on clinical experience as a Patient Care Technician, I have developed a passion for bridging the gap between healthcare systems and the populations they serve. I am particularly interested in preventive health strategies, community-based interventions, and addressing health inequities in vulnerable populations.
My work focuses on promoting health education, supporting behavior change, and contributing to programs that empower individuals to take control of their health. I am committed to using evidence-based approaches to create meaningful and sustainable improvements in community health.
As I continue my professional journey, I aim to integrate clinical care with public health principles to provide holistic, patient-centered care.
Experience
Clinical, volunteering, and internship experience
Patient Care Technician
Progressive Care Unit (PCU)
- Provided direct patient care, including monitoring vital signs, assisting with daily living activities, and supporting nursing staff
- Developed strong communication skills when interacting with patients, families, and interdisciplinary teams
- Gained hands-on experience in a fast-paced clinical environment, strengthening my understanding of patient-centered care
Therapeutic Riding Center Volunteer
Supporting individuals with disabilities through therapeutic and community-based care.
- Assisted individuals with physical and developmental disabilities during therapeutic horseback riding sessions
- Supported instructors in ensuring participant safety and comfort throughout activities
- Encouraged confidence, independence, and social engagement among participants
- Gained insight into the role of alternative therapies in improving physical and emotional well-being
My Style Matters Internship Program (Atlanta, GA)
Supporting community outreach and health education initiatives for women impacted by breast cancer.
- Assist in planning and implementing community outreach programs and events
- Support health education efforts focused on awareness, prevention, and survivorship
- Collaborate with team members to engage and empower women within the community
- Contribute to program development aimed at improving access to resources and support services
Major Projects
The following projects highlight my experience applying public health principles to real-world health challenges.
Maternal Health Promotion Program
- Designed a comprehensive health promotion program targeting maternal health outcomes
- Conducted a needs assessment to identify disparities and barriers to care
- Developed program goals, SMART objectives, and implementation strategies
- Created a logic model outlining inputs, activities, outputs, and expected outcomes
Literature Review: Childhood Obesity Interventions
- Analyzed evidence-based interventions targeting childhood obesity
- Focused on effective program components, including school-based nutrition programs
- Examined health disparities in access to prevention and intervention strategies
Health Promotion Program Planning (PRECEDE Model)
- Applied the PRECEDE-PROCEED framework to design a structured health intervention
- Identified behavioral, environmental, and social determinants of health
- Proposed strategies to improve health outcomes among college students in STEM programs
Public Health Interests
- Health Promotion & Disease Prevention
- Health Disparities and Health Equity
- Community-Based Interventions
- Maternal and Women’s Health
- Preventive Care and Patient Education
- Access to Healthcare in Underserved Populations
My public health interests center on improving access to care and promoting preventive health strategies, particularly within underserved populations. I am especially interested in how community-based programs and education can reduce health disparities and empower individuals to make informed health decisions.
Stay In Touch
I am open to opportunities in public health, healthcare, and community-based initiatives.
Linkedyn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/francisca-montes-bb645b224/
Email: francisca.montes.otth@gmail.com