Sherdina Davis didn't start college planning to study Communication. Now a third-year at the University of Pittsburgh, she has earned early acceptance into Pitt's accelerated Health Policy and Management program — a goal she found by following her own instincts, and the advice of the right professors.
In the beginning of her academic career, Sherdina intended on studying toward pre-pharmacy, joining the Red Cross and National Black Women in Medicine clubs. In finding her way, she was introduced to the Communication Rhetoric major, realizing that the courses allowed her space to extend her passion of service and excel academically. A health communication course with Dr. Katheryn Christy of the Pitt Communication Department only solidified the change in major to Communication Rhetoric.
“I wanted to learn more in understanding how people communicated with each other,” Sherdina explained, “in addition to being really happy in those classes. This was a shift from what everyone else expected me to do, to something I truly felt that I could make a change in.”
Sherdina is quick to credit one professor in particular--Dr. Chantele Mitchell-Miland.
“I took a public health class freshman year with Dr. Mitchell-Miland, who told me I should really consider this path, that I had a knack for it and could go far. I owe everything to this professor; she really pushed me into the sector.”
The Communication Rhetoric major aided her academic career in many ways thus far, allowing her to think critically, analyze sources, and conduct research, not only within her current coursework but also in applying to graduate school. Sherdina aims through her learning and future endeavors to serve others in overcoming biases in accepting beneficial health information.
In addition to being a Communication Rhetoric Major, Sherdina is an African Studies minor and earning certificates in Global Health and Corporate Community Relations. She serves as the vice president for Zeta Phi Beta Incorporated. This organization’s chapter was organized in 1971 at the University of Pittsburgh and contributes to the community in a variety of service endeavors. This Xi Delta chapter has partnered with organizations such as March of Dimes, Healthy Minds Mentoring, and Keep it Clean Oakland.
To students who are finding their footing within communication and otherwise, Sherdina shares her insight, communication being “the groundwork for all careers.”
“There is always a correlation. Whatever your interest is, you can pick up a minor in it, do it because you can unlock so many new opportunities just by being your truest self. Don't let anyone shy you away from it.”
Written by Giulia Siegfried for COMMRC Connect