Addressing Public Health Issues: Texas A&M Students Step Up in Hidalgo County
In Hidalgo County, Texas, students from the Texas A&M University School of Public Health are leading initiatives that tackle pressing public health challenges. Enrolled in the PHLT 411 Project Management in Public Health course at the Texas A&M Higher Education Center at McAllen (HECM), these aspiring public health professionals are actively engaged in community service projects that resonate deeply within underserved populations.
The Role of PHLT 411 at Texas A&M
The PHLT 411 course serves as a foundation for future public health leaders, emphasizing collaboration with community organizations to identify and address local health issues. With the Bachelor of Science in Public Health program rooted in meeting the needs of South Texas, students gain practical experience while applying their academic learning to real-world situations.
Skills Development Through Service Learning
Led by Dr. Krystal Flores-Chavez, this service-learning course promotes the integration of theoretical concepts into actionable projects. "Students develop essential skills such as project management, leadership, and effective communication," Flores-Chavez explains. This hands-on approach not only enriches their educational experience but also prepares them for the complex health challenges they will confront in their careers.
Highlights of Student-Led Projects
During the fall 2025 semester, three significant projects stood out, each targeting unique health issues: a community baby shower, a sexual health awareness event, and a cleanup initiative aimed at environmental health.
Cradle of Care: Supporting Maternal and Child Health
One of the standout initiatives was the Cradle of Care, a community baby shower hosted in Alamo, Texas. Belen Trevino and her team coordinated with the House of Love & Justice to address gaps in maternal health services and infant care supplies for underserved families. The event attracted nearly 100 attendees and provided critical resources such as breastfeeding guides and mother-infant care kits, along with informative sessions from local clinics and nonprofits. This project exemplifies the necessity for accessible maternal and child health services in regions with limited resources.
Play It Safe: Sexual Health Awareness Event
Another successful endeavor was the Play It Safe event, led by students including Kate Balli and Pablo-Mortimer Romero. This initiative aimed to increase sexual health awareness among fellow students at the HECM. Approximately 150 participants received free educational resources and health kits, fostering a dialogue around sexual health that is often considered taboo. Balli emphasized the importance of community outreach, stating that such events require meticulous planning and teamwork to achieve meaningful impact. Romero highlighted the synergy of public health knowledge with clinical skills, reinforcing the notion that outreach contributes to improved health outcomes.
Wings of Transformation: Environmental Health Initiative
Focusing on environmental health, Alexis Aguilera and her team led the Wings of Transformation event in a local colonia in Donna, Texas. Their efforts included a cleanup that involved removing debris and offering a food and clothing drive. Residents expressed gratitude for the students’ work while articulating ongoing concerns about environmental hazards such as standing water and pests. Aguilera noted that even small interventions could drastically enhance community safety and quality of life.
Learning Outcomes: Impact on Future Careers
The course’s experiential learning approach yielded invaluable insights for students, shaping their aspirations in public health. For instance, Eliana Lopez expressed that her involvement in the Cradle of Care project ignited her passion for pursuing a master’s degree focused on maternal and child health.
Dr. Flores-Chavez remarked on the transformative experiences of her students, observing how they evolved from hesitant participants into empowered leaders capable of tackling complex community issues. By instilling the core values of selfless service and excellence, the PHLT 411 course positions Texas A&M students to make a lasting impact on public health in their regions.
Conclusion: Building a Healthier Future
The commitment demonstrated by Texas A&M students in Hidalgo County highlights the significant role of community engagement in public health. Through collaborative initiatives, these students not only address immediate health concerns but also lay the groundwork for sustainable improvements in health outcomes. As they venture into various health professions, their experiences will undoubtedly shape their contributions to public health and inspire others to follow in their footsteps.
Engaging with community health issues prepares future leaders to navigate the multifaceted landscape of public health, reinforcing the importance of hands-on learning and community service. For further information on public health programs, visit the Texas A&M University School of Public Health and discover how students are making a difference today.
