WKU News

Cori Covington is a senior in the Public Health Program at WKU. The Bowling Green native represents the University and her field of study by volunteering in the COVID Unit at Med Center Health.

“I was selected and trained as a COVID-19 volunteer and contact tracer for the state of Kentucky in May,” Covington said. “I try to soak up every possible experience that I'm presented with. I’m grateful to have been chosen to assist the KY team during this time.”

Public Health professionals develop programs that protect the health of individuals, families, and communities from a “big picture” perspective. Covington is playing a vital role in bettering the health of the Bowling Green community-at-large and believes her coursework has prepared her for these real-world experiences.

“The knowledge that I have obtained from my Public Health courses helped me to safely perform my tasks at the hospital. Microbiology Lab, especially, taught me how to safely handle infections and bacteria,” Covington said.

The faculty and staff are truly the heartbeat of our campus community. “The best part of my WKU experience has been the life-changing opportunities that Dr. [Grace] Lartey, WKU Public Health Professor, has given to her students,” Covington said. “As a Hilltopper we’re all in this together, I love that you find a smiling face everywhere that you turn.”

After spending her first two years at the University of Louisville, Covington decided she was ready to return home to Bowling Green. She comes from a long line of WKU graduates and spends her time adding to the sense of community on our campus. “I do not miss a game day. Every weekend I am on the Hill with my friends supporting the Tops and cannot leave campus without going to the Starbucks in DSU [Downing Student Union] that is my favorite spot!” she said.

Reflecting on her time at WKU, Covington shared advice on building success as a student, “Staying informed with campus news has allowed me to capitalize on networking opportunities. If you have the chance to shadow someone in your field of study, do not hesitate to experience firsthand what your future will look like day-to-day.”

Following graduation in May 2021, Covington looks to continue her education in the Master of Public Health program and hopes to work in the field of infectious disease or healthcare administration.