Meet Our Team: Bernadette Carter-Salmond

Over the last several weeks, we have published a series of Q&As introducing our readers to the people behind the work here at Public Health Post: our student fellows and editorial team. Next up is Bernadette Carter-Salmond, one of our student writing fellows. Each week, Bernadette pitches new story ideas that break down health research, explain data graphics, or present original interviews with leaders in the field. She then works with our editors to write, edit, and rewrite her stories for public consumption.

Learn more about Bernadette, her public health interests, and where she draws inspiration for her writing below.

What public health issue are you most passionate about, and why?

I am most passionate about addressing health inequities for people living with disabilities. People with disabilities often have unique needs that are not well understood, and when accommodations are viewed as inconvenient, it can lead to stigma, marginalization, and reduced quality of life. This hardship may cause burnout, but it’s essential to remember that people with disabilities are still people, deserving of dignity and support. Highlighting the voices of those with disabilities is imperative in increasing inclusivity and reducing stigma.

What drew you to Public Health Post, and what are you hoping to contribute or learn?

PHP’s mission directly aligns with my personal public health goals. I hope to help close the gap between scientists and the general public via the media. I hope my unique perspective and knowledge can spotlight lesser-explored aspects of public health through my writing.

What’s a public health myth or misconception you’d love to bust?

A common misconception is that public health is all about the numbers, like disease rates, mortality rates, and vaccination percentages. While stats play a vital role in identifying disease trends and evaluating interventions, they don’t tell the full story. Public health professionals also rely on qualitative data, like interviews and personal stories, to understand the human side of public health and address the deeper, more complex issues affecting communities.

What’s the hardest part about translating public health research into something accessible?

The hardest part is knowing what information to keep in and what to leave out. When making research more accessible, you are often condensing 5+ pages of in-depth information into a few paragraphs. You have to pick and choose what matters most to your audience, and some valuable pieces of information may get left out.

Who or what inspires your writing?

My writing is inspired by my own and others’ life experiences and viewpoints. When I have conversations with people in my life or look at comments on social media, I can often think about research or information that either supports or contradicts their claims. Every conversation or piece of media sparks an “OH! I can write about that” moment for me.

If you weren’t in public health, what job would you want to try for a day?

I would love to be a tennis player for a day. Do I play tennis, or am I even athletic? Absolutely not. Are the outfits cute? Yes!!!

Coffee or tea?

No preference, it depends on how I feel that day.

Early bird or night owl?

Night owl, I am not a functioning human being before 11 am.

Last book you read and loved?

Lovecraft Country by Matt Ruff

Dream vacation spot?

Japan