Charles Crawford

Charles Crawford transferred to Russell Sage College after earning an Associate of Science degree in a Physical Therapy Assistant program. 

As he was studying for his associate degree, he developed a strong interest in the social determinants of health — defined by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention as “conditions in the places where people live, learn, work and play that affect a wide range of health and quality-of life-risks and outcomes.”

“There are problems associated with health that cannot be solved through direct medical care,” Charles said. “I found these other problems to be interesting and wanted to learn more about them, as well as how to address them.” 

The public health field seemed a great match for what he wanted to do, he continued, and Sage’s Public Health program was a great fit.  

“I wanted a smaller school with professors who knew their students,” he said. “I also found Sage’s Public Health degree program to be appealing since it offered a wide view of the influences on health, as well as the ability to take some courses specific to my areas of interest.” 

One of his specific interests is environmental issues. 

“Since the environment can contribute significantly to health, and since the environment is becoming a topic of concern in the world, these classes have led me to want to be more aware of my environmental impact, as well as the environmental impact of the built environment around me,” he said. 

Charles has been able to work directly on environmental issues that affect health at an internship with the Vermont Department of Health. 

His internship is focused on curbing vaping and tobacco use in Bennington County. One of his projects is working with community organizations and schools to create a system for students to responsibly dispose of vape devices (classified as hazardous waste) and drafting promotional messaging and policy language to encourage compliance with the disposal procedures. 

Charles will receive his bachelor’s degree in Public Health this May. His next professional goals are to build a career that helps others and eventually to earn a graduate degree. 

He also has a personal goal to travel around the United States, “to experience what other parts of the country are like and what they have to offer.”

He’s confident that his goals are well within his reach. 

“My Sage education and internship are giving me the skills and knowledge I will need to become successful within the field of Public Health and beyond,” he said, and his advisor, Associate Professor Dayna Maniccia, “has also inspired me to find ways to overcome challenges that might stand in the way of achieving my goals.”