Neil Carlson is a 1988 graduate of the industrial hygiene program and currently works at the University of Minnesota Department of Environmental Health and Safety as an industrial hygienist. Over the years, he’s been fortunate to serve as a mentor, preceptor, and guest lecturer. Working as a preceptor, he’s been able to work with students to conduct important research to protect employees from animal allergens and measure custodial cleaning effectiveness.
What is your favorite part of volunteering with SPH?
I’ve been fortunate to mentor students around the globe and learn more about each one of their cultures. I enjoy interacting with students and listening to them discuss their life experiences. I appreciate the opportunity to have conversations about future possibilities and the chance to uncover new interests. Working with goal-oriented students reaffirms my faith in future generations to creatively understand and deal with new challenges.
Why did you decide to volunteer with SPH?
As a student worker during graduate school, I was grateful for the mentoring I received from my co-workers and supervisor. I wanted to give other students the opportunity to help explore options for their future. I enjoy finding out their interests and providing them options and resources that could help them further explore their interest and seek rewarding employment.
What would you tell someone who is thinking about volunteering with SPH?
If you have the time and the interest, please consider volunteering. The students will appreciate your wisdom and you will appreciate their energy and curiosity. The cross generational exchange of perspectives allows for rapid personal growth. You will also have the opportunity to be a part of the future of public health.
What advice would you offer to your fellow alums?
I encourage alumni to stay connected to the University of Minnesota, remain curious and investigate methods to understand people, methods of communication, and principles of adult learning, as well as seek to acquire a breadth and depth of knowledge that will help to understand the different cultures of the world.
Nominate an Alum for our Volunteer Spotlight Series
The School of Public Health boasts extraordinary volunteers who help advance our mission and values. Our volunteers serve on boards and committees, mentor current students, serve as guest lecturers, and so much more. Our volunteer spotlight series highlights the incredible contributions these individuals are making to SPH. Know an amazing volunteer at SPH? Submit their name and brief description of why they should be highlighted to sph-alum@umn.edu to be considered for a future spotlight.
