Dear AIU,
As I reflect on my academic journey towards earning a Doctorate in Public Health at Atlantic
International University (AIU), I am pleased to share my experiences, hoping to encourage those
considering this rewarding endeavor. This letter is an honest recount of my time at AIU,
encapsulating the highs and lows, the learning and growth, and, most importantly, the true essence
of the AIU experience.
The Onset of My Journey Deciding to pursue a Doctorate in Public Health at AIU was driven by
my passion for making tangible impacts in global health. AIU’s flexible and innovative approach
to higher education stood out, promising an experience that could harmonize with my professional
commitments and personal aspirations. My admissions advisor, Judith Brown, was exceptionally
supportive.
A Curriculum Tailored to Real-World Challenges and to Your Needs AIU’s curriculum in
Public Health is meticulously designed to address contemporary global health challenges. I was
also able to tailor the curriculum to my needs, which made it very interesting and applicable to my
work environment. The coursework was very practical, which encouraged the application of
knowledge in real-world scenarios. This approach not only deepened my understanding of public
health theories but also honed my skills in strategic thinking, problem-solving, and public
speaking. My thesis took the form of a grant proposal, which is an area of expertise for me. This
made the journey to completing my thesis less stressful and very rewarding. I was able to utilize
my thesis as part of a grant application for which my organization received funding.
Challenges and Growth Pursuing a doctorate is no small feat. There were challenges, moments
of doubt, and hurdles to overcome, particularly in balancing academic requirements with personal
and professional responsibilities. However, I was able to progress at my own pace and when I
wanted to give up, I took a month’s break and got back on track very easily.
Completing my Doctorate in Public Health at AIU has been a transformative experience. It has
equipped me with the knowledge, skills, and networks to make meaningful contributions to public
health. More importantly, it has instilled in me a lifelong passion for learning and a commitment
to serving communities in need.
Sincerely,
Natalie Irving-Mattocks
