Ellie Graff, MPH 2026 (photo submitted)
As a 1st Year MPH student in the Research in Practice concentration in Public Health Sciences, Ellie Graff came to UVA with a BS in Biochemistry from Appalachian State University, where she also worked as a program coordinator for two years. Ellie always knew she wanted to use science to help people and gravitated towards biochemistry because of the connections to the world of medical research. She also loves the scientific process and the analytical rigor of biochemistry.
But, after going to school through COVID and gaining professional experience working with programs that had a direct benefit to the population being studied, Ellie made the decision to continue her education in public health. She said, “I want to pursue a career that combines both my scientific background with hands-on work that will positively impact the health of my community, especially in rural health and clinical research.” Her background in biochemistry emphasized the importance of a rigorous research structure to obtain strong data and has given her insight into the individual biology of certain diseases, how drugs are developed, and issues like antibiotic resistance.
Currently, Ellie works as the graduate assistant for UVA Public Service Pathways program, which connects undergraduate students to public service and community engagement as both a personal commitment and part of a career in areas such as public health. In her free time, Ellie has enjoyed volunteering with Habitat for Humanity; she also likes to crochet, bake, and spend time outside.