Student Organizations

College of Public Health students are strongly encouraged to participate in Departmental, College and University student organizations. Student organizations help to develop student leadership skills, provide professional and personal networking opportunities and foster a sense of community within the College. There are many exciting opportunities to be involved at our College. A list of the student organizations at the College of Public Health and the University of South Florida are listed below. If you don’t see your favorite organization listed or you would like to start a new organization contact the Academic Affairs Office for more information.

College Wide Student Organizations

		Delta Omega is the honorary society for graduate studies in public health. The society was founded in 1924 at the Johns Hopkins University School of Hygiene and Public Health. There are currently 68 chapters throughout the United States and abroad.
	The USF Infectious Disease Association’s (IDA) has as its mission to promote the understanding of infectious diseases through guest lectures, student presentations, field trips and group discussions. All students are welcome to participate in association activities. Meetings are generally held bimonthly and include guest lectures, group discussions, student presentations and organization business.
	The Public Health Student Association (PHSA) represents graduate student interests in the College of Public Health and encourages the active participation from its members in developing community public health awareness. It is also the purpose of PHSA to encourage the interaction of students with faculty and staff so students may have some impact over program matters, knowledge of educational opportunities and guidance in directing their public health careers.
	The MCHSO is an organization open to all USF students who are interested in the well-being of mothers, children, and families. Our mission is to 1) Educate and increase awareness of Maternal and Child Health (MCH) issues and projects within the U.S and abroad; 2) Connect students with service and learning opportunities in MCH; 3) Create opportunities for mentorship and learning among alumni and students of the University of South Florida (USF); and 4) Provide opportunities for interaction among students interested in MCH, as well as MCH faculty and staff. MCHSO hosts a monthly lecture series, coordinates social events, participates in service learning activities, and convenes an annual symposium on MCH Related Topics. You can find us on Facebook at USF Maternal and Child Health Student Organization!

Department Based Student Organizations

		Eta Sigma Gamma is the National Professional Health Honorary Society. The primary purpose of Eta Sigma Gamma is to enhance the professional competence and dedication of individual members to the profession of health education. The University of South Florida Chapter is open to graduate students within the Department of Community and Family Health who have a health education focus and meet the eligibility criteria. The Eta Sigma Gamma insignia reflects the ideals of teaching, service and research. The lamp of learning utilized in installation/initiation ceremonies represents the unifying element of the three ideals.
Global Health Student Association	Public Health has become a global discipline and public health professionals must understand and be prepared to address health issues and their determinants that span geopolitical boundaries. We all live on this small planet together and it is in our best interest to use an ecological approach to protect and nurture the human and physical resources available. The Global Health Student Association provides a wonderful opportunity for students to expand their educational experience into the international arena through a variety of activities and learning experiences. I encourage you to become involved and make a difference in the world.
	Membership in the Healthcare Management Student Association is open to students enrolled in the degree or Certificate programs of the Department of Health Policy and Management. This provides students interested in health services administration with opportunities to enhance their knowledge of effective leadership skills in healthcare organizations and to develop their professional networks within the healthcare community.

USF Health & USF Student Organizations

The International Health Service Collaborative is a group of USF Health students, faculty, and professionals focused on: Promoting sustainable health projects in underserved communities within the U.S. and developing nations Creating a forum for interdisciplinary interaction within USF Health and throughout USF, which will result in more well-rounded health professionals

Other Student Organizations Links

• American Public Health Association
• Campus Initiative (UNICEF)
• Global Health Council University Program
• Student Global AIDS Campaign
• Student Campaign for Child Survival
• Student National Medical Association
• Students Partnership Worldwide