Carla Valdez, Ed.D., MPH

“When working in health education, and with specific populations, it’s important build empathy. Try putting yourself in the other person’s shoes and understanding from another perspective.”

This advice I learned this from my first public health professor, Dr. Parker, at the University of Arizona.

As a faculty member of California State University, Northridge (CSUN), Carla Valdez, Ed.D., MPH, shares the advice she heard while offering her students three pieces of her own advice.

First, take the academic internship seriously. Second, build your public health network and maintain relationships. And last, commit to continuing education and professional development so it becomes a habit.

Carla is excited to see how many students are now interested in public health and health education. Originally from Los Angeles, Carla discovered public health while attending the University of Arizona.

Her career in health education grew from her interest in a variety of health topics. She wanted a career where she could have a positive impact on the health of individuals and on health outcomes. Although she misses the work she did while at Planned Parenthood, she loves her lecturer position at CSUN.

An avid reader, Carla started a book club with friends almost 15 years ago. And she only reads hard copies of books. She reads the New York Times, newsletters, reports and updates from public health organizations. When not reading she enjoys tv shows like The Crown, the Marvelous Mrs. Maisel and Project Runway.

Carla is a 6-10 year SOPHE member.