This is part of a series of Q&As introducing faculty who have joined the College of Health Sciences for the 2024–25 academic year. Meet all of our new faculty members.

Sandra Chrapah

Assistant teaching professor, Department of Health Sciences

What classes are you teaching this semester?

I am teaching HS 4400: Culture and Health Literacy for the Health Professions.

Tell us about yourself. What is your background?

I am originally from Ghana and came to the U.S. as an exchange student in Minnesota during my senior year of high school. That was when a friend told me about this school with a beautiful campus in Missouri (Mizzou), which I applied for and gained admission. This was where I got my bachelor’s and master’s degrees in health science and health administration, respectively. I then completed my PhD in Health Services Administration. I am passionate about teaching and global maternal and child health, and I have developed an interest in traveling.

What brought you to Mizzou? To your field?

A friend introduced me to Mizzou, as I mentioned earlier. I had an interesting path where I started with biological sciences hoping to get into medical or pharmacy school. I was, however, conflicted because I knew I wanted to be in the health field but not as a clinician.

I switched my major to health science when I knew I was missing out on major announcements regarding my career trajectory. I was then enrolled in Health Science 1000 (at the time I believe) by my wonderful advisor, Ruth Crozier. In this class, we learned about different health professions. One day, a man came to talk about public health and health administration. After listening to him describe his job, I said to myself, “I found it! My passion has a name!” I never looked back since.

What is your favorite thing about your job?

Learning from students’ experiences.

What has you excited for this semester?

Everything, really! Learning about the department from a faculty perspective.

What is a fun hobby or activity that you enjoy outside of work?

Trying new recipes is my all-time favorite activity.

What is a particularly memorable moment from your time teaching?

This is my first year as a faculty, so I am looking forward to experiencing these moments.

What is the best piece of advice you’ve ever received, and who gave it to you?

My father always said, “No matter where you go, remember where you came from.” And “Always stay humble.”

I would like to add some advice that resonates with me. That is, if you are worried about how long it will take to complete something (a degree, project, a task, etc.), that time will pass by whether you complete it or not — so why not get it done?