The Elon Year of Service Fellows program offers students a unique opportunity to engage directly with community partners while gaining invaluable professional experience. For Frieda, the fellowship has proven to be a pivotal step in her journey toward a career in public health.
The Elon Year of Service Fellows program offers students a unique opportunity to engage directly with community partners while gaining invaluable professional experience. For Frieda Walsh Seaman ’24, the fellowship has proven to be a pivotal step in her journey toward a career in public health.
“I would say that if your only fear is feeling like you’re not progressing because you’re working in the same place you graduated from, then you have the narrative twisted,” Frieda shared. “This fellowship was the biggest step I could have taken toward my career and adulthood. It allowed me to develop crucial work environment skills while also boosting my confidence, helping me embrace adulthood, and overcoming imposter syndrome.”
At Alamance County Health Department, Frieda’s work is both impactful and multifaceted. She is currently engaged in implementing and analyzing the opioid settlement through harm reduction tactics. In addition, she is studying evidence-based strategies aimed at enhancing substance use disorder recovery and overdose reversal—all with the goal of improving outcomes for the local community.
Reflecting on her experience, Frieda noted that her contributions, though sometimes viewed as a small piece of a larger effort, are already making a significant difference.
“I believe my work is contributing to a healthier Alamance County,” she explained. “I’ve received feedback from people who have been impacted by my trainings and efforts, which has inspired me to develop a passion for serving broader populations in public health.”
Her positive experiences have further encouraged her to pursue a Master of Public Health as the next step in her career.
The Alamance County Health Department continues to serve as a critical partner in fostering community wellness, and Frieda’s dedication highlights the powerful role that service-based learning can play in both professional and personal growth. With a network of mentors and peers supporting her, she is poised to continue her journey in public health—transforming challenges into opportunities and inspiring hope throughout the community.
Frieda’s story is a testament to the transformative impact of the Elon Year of Service Fellows program, demonstrating that meaningful community engagement not only benefits local residents but also equips students with the skills and confidence needed to forge successful, purpose-driven careers.