“I’ve always have been interested in healthcare, but public health offers a new behind-the-scenes perspective I never knew existed.”
Choosing a major can be a stressful decision, and it was for Mara Holland. She kept losing interest in her classes, wondering if she had to settle for something “good enough.” Luckily, with the help of fate and a few kind teachers, Mara found her place in the Public Health major.
Mara came to Gustavus open to studying a variety of fields, knowing that a wide range of classes would allow her to explore multiple paths, while building close relationships with all kinds of professors. After exploring different subjects for 3 semesters, Mara signed up for Intro to Public Health, igniting a growing passion for healthcare fueled by dedicated professors like Karl Larson.
Professor Larson’s enthusiastic teaching and guidance outside the classroom has ushered Mara into the Public Health major, which she formally declared in spring 2025. Now, Mara excels in her field of study, allowing her to succeed both in and outside of the classroom.
Mara has used the welcoming, passionate environment of Gustavus to her full advantage, taking part in athletics such as the Volleyball team, and the volunteer opportunities of the Pediatric Cancer Outreach Crew to put her public health major to use.
Although she was unsure at the beginning, Mara is now more certain than ever as she continues down her chosen path of Public Health, learning much from her professors and looking forward to what’s next. “[I’m] so excited for a future in public health.”