2019 PHAP (CDC's Public Health Associate Program)

[Sareile]

Yes, got a call for acceptance beginning of June - no email yet. I also emailed HR, and they said they have my acceptance - nothing more.

What number did you call?

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[HIP2016]

Good Afternoon Everyone, I’m a longtime lurker of this forum and about a week ago on 7/3/19 I received an email (no phone call) with a tentative job offer in the PHAP. I was super excited, nervous and unsure this whole entire time but the wait is finally over . I accepted the job on Sunday, they gave me 5 days to accept/decline. I discussed it with my family and felt it was a once in a lifetime opportunity.My placement is Bay,Oregon? and my work assignment is HIV. While I am not necessarily thrilled about going all the way to the west coast from Georgia or my work assignment, I am still excited, blessed and thankful for the opportunity to be one of the many few accepted into this program. Is there anybody that knows where Bay, Oregon is exactly, it doesn’t show up on the map, or others being placed in Oregon. Any former/current PHAPs in Oregon? I have tons of questions. Also if anybody has questions or are being placed in Georgia and has questions about the state feel free to ask. Thanks!!!

Hello! I am a 2016 PHAP, and I was the first ever PHAP assigned to Coos Bay, OR. I am pretty sure that is where you will be placed since my former host site supervisor mentioned to me that she was putting in an application for a HIV assignment. I had a wonderful experience and learned a lot about rural health. Feel free to reach out and PM me with questions. I only created an account on this site because I got so excited when I saw that you would be going to Coos County!

 

[phapsf]

Hi everyone, got my acceptance via phone call early June for San Francisco in the TB department! For those of you also still waiting on the email with logistics, how are y'all dealing with finding housing? The website says the start date is in October and I'm wondering if its safe to assume that's accurate for everyone.

 

[PHAP_magnolia]

To current and former PHAP associates, do you all happen to know if the goverment shutdowns influence the PHAP? Just wanted to plan ahead in case.

 

[alh601]

To current and former PHAP associates, do you all happen to know if the goverment shutdowns influence the PHAP? Just wanted to plan ahead in case.

Yes it does. If CDC or Health & Human Services are in funding lapse then yes we are forloughed until it is approved. You aren’t allowed to report to work, use your cdc logins, or anything during that time

 

[tdphap]

Hi everybody, I just found this forum! I received my tentative offer about 4 weeks ago now and I still haven't received an email from USAJobs or HR for the formal offer and to submit my transcript and background check to USAJobs. Is anybody else still waiting for their formal offer letter too?

 

[sunflower1517]

Hi everybody, I just found this forum! I received my tentative offer about 4 weeks ago now and I still haven't received an email from USAJobs or HR for the formal offer and to submit my transcript and background check to USAJobs. Is anybody else still waiting for their formal offer letter too?

Yes, there are still people waiting for formal offers! I suggest you join the facebook group linked earlier in this thread. There has been a lot of great information posted there.

 

[tdphap]

Yes, there are still people waiting for formal offers! I suggest you join the facebook group linked earlier in this thread. There has been a lot of great information posted there.

Thank you so much! I already sent my request, I'm just waiting to get approved to join the facebook group!

 

[Cilla_NE]

PHAP returners and alum - did any of you work any weekend gigs to make extra income?

 

[amlodipine]

Hello Every,

I discovered this forum a couple weeks ago and I have been following posts. Congratulation to you all who have been selected for the PHAP, I can imagine the excitement. I applied for this program, and got interviewed May 14th. Since then I have not had any update. Beginning this month, I discover this forum and find out they called and offered positions to applicants already. I contacted CDC HR office, two times by phones, and one time by email, they only response I had is that their HR specialists are getting ready to send out result notification and this is about 2 weeks I haven't receive anything.
Is anyone in the same situation? Can I still have hope?
Thank you for your response!

 

[ronathan]

Okay! Tentative e-mail offer FINALLY came today. Included in the e-mail was instructions on where to mail official transcripts, and a link to a website to accept the official offer. Also included was information on how to begin the security background check.

The e-mail was sent from the following address, if you want to keep your eyes out for it (and make sure it doesn't end up in your spam folder): [email protected]

 

[Aiesha Hibbert]

Hello Everyone,

I just got off the phone with HR and they said that the official offer letters (emails) will be sent out starting next Wednesday. Fingers cross to everyone! I can't wait to get all the PHAP information, that I beginning making the proper steps into the program.

 

[HealthEducator92]

To current and former PHAP associates, do you all happen to know if the goverment shutdowns influence the PHAP? Just wanted to plan ahead in case.

Yes and no. Let me clarify why. It only affects you if the CIO that you're operating under is not funded. For example, even though the program itself is through CSTLTS, some associates will primarily be working with other CIOs like NCHHSTP, CSELS, NCIRD, NCEZID, etc. While the majority of us were working under CIOs funded through September and were fine, I recently learned of one associate who was affected by the shutdown. Their CIO wasn't funded and so they weren't paid for several weeks. From what I heard, they barely got by during that time.

My advice would be to save up as much money as you can between when you start and January. I know this can be challenging considering our pay and the holidays. But any amount to fall back on, should you need it, would be helpful. Also worth noting is when pay periods start. For the 2018 cohort, we started on October 1st, which was in the middle of a pay period. We didn't receive our first paychecks until about 3 weeks into the program. As you can imagine, that first month hit everyone hard. I'm going to attach the HHS Payroll Calendar for FY 2019. Make note of the paydays to help with planning and budgeting.

 

[Kaiser_1]

Hello Everyone,

I just got off the phone with HR and they said that the official offer letters (emails) will be sent out starting next Wednesday. Fingers cross to everyone! I can't wait to get all the PHAP information, that I beginning making the proper steps into the program.

Just to clarify: Everyone will get the emails even if they haven’t received the tentative email?
Hmm some people on FB mentioned something opposite.

 

[alh601]

PHAP returners and alum - did any of you work any weekend gigs to make extra income?

Me! I have a pt job at Marshall's since it pays weekly.

 

[Aiesha Hibbert]

Just to clarify: Everyone will get the emails even if they haven’t received the tentative email?
Hmm some people on FB mentioned something opposite.

What is the facebook group name?

 

[modeevator]

What is the facebook group name?

2019 PHAP Cohort Group

 

[OsLeon38]

I was told there will be 3 People going to San Antonio TX, if one of you are going there too please let me know.

 

[Aiesha Hibbert]

HR confirmed with me today that the PHAP program will begin October 15th.

 

[EuMar57]

Greetings everyone, I uam Eugene Martin, recent graduate from Georgia State University. I was granted the honor of working with immunizations in Tampa, Fl.

It would be helpful to connect with someone who will also be relocating to Tampa, Fl. Or someone with knowledge of living and working in Tampa.

Also, WOW! We are super lucky and deserving of this opportunity. So congrats to everyone and happy summer to all!

Thanks for reading,

 

[parkiepark]

Hi, everybody! First-time poster, long-time lurker... Just curious, do you know if all of the potential PHAP candidates have been contacted? If I didn't get the fellowship, it would just be nice to know so that I can start applying to other jobs instead. Any advice would be greatly appreciated! Have a great one

 

[arin_phstudent]

Hi, everybody! First-time poster, long-time lurker... Just curious, do you know if all of the potential PHAP candidates have been contacted? If I didn't get the fellowship, it would just be nice to know so that I can start applying to other jobs instead. Any advice would be greatly appreciated! Have a great one

Hi parkiepark! Based on previous forums and former PHAPs, they continue contacting people until the very end, so there still may be a chance! But I would still apply for other jobs! I was applying until I got the call and I’m a big believer in not putting all your eggs in one basket!

 

[ffilbe444]

Hi all! I'm a lurker and i finally decided to create an account and contribute to this forum.

So I was placed in Lima, Ohio. I'm super excited, but I'm nervous about moving away and figuring out how and where to move. I read on here that CDC associates sometimes assist PHA's with moving logistics, I'm interested in that lmao. Also, has anyone else been placed in Ohio this upcoming PHAP class?

 

[gavriel]

Hi All! I've been reading through everything y'all have been discussing for the past little bit and have found it massively helpful. (It was also relieving to know I wasn't the only one with stressing excessively at every step).

I got my assignment in Mangilao, Guam working in Tuberculosis control back in June and am wading through the background check portion at the moment. Hopefully I'll get to see y'all at orientation in November!

 

[deleted963541]

I'm assuming all the offers have come out at this point. Congrats to you all! Fellow rejects, read on:

Anyways, as predicted after my interview, I didn't get a PHAP position. And I was devastated, because I had my eye on this program since sophomore year of college. So after I basically confirmed to myself that I wasn't selected after all the offers and host sites started coming in on this thread, I began to apply to all the public health jobs I could find. I live in the NOVA/DC area, so the job market is a lot better here than other places. Felt like I was in a time crunch though, because my internship was ending this month and I didn't have a job lined up afterwards. The PHAP timeline would have been perfect.
Anyways, I have a decent resume (for a recent college grad) since I've done a few public health related internships. But it was still difficult nonetheless, because for most jobs I applied to, I never got a response back. I got a few rejections as well. But I did receive interview offers from about roughly 5 companies too. Some were from local companies, and others were from

Wait for it...

USAID and EPA

I bombed my USAID interview for reasons beyond my control - but it was a really cool global health opportunity at the federal government! And guess who offered me a job at the perfect time, just two weeks ago:

The EPA.

It's a public health related role too, focused on environmental health! I don't have to move anywhere (the location is right in their HQ at the heart of DC which is AMAZING), it pays better than PHAP, it's extremely aligned with my interests, and it's still with the federal government! I cannot be more thrilled!! What's crazy is I almost didn't apply- I knew it was a competitive role and probably a million other candidates with qualifications better than mine would apply. But I took a chance anyways and I got it! I type this as I'm undergoing my background check. Should be set to start within the next couple weeks.

The reason I made this post is because I want everyone who didn't get selected for PHAP to know that, yes, PHAP would have been an awesome opportunity, but it's not the ONLY opportunity. When one door closes, another one opens. PHAP is not the only way to get into the federal government. You can still establish a great public health career in the federal government without it. It may take some time, but if it's TRULY meant for you, it will come. Just trust the process, take your chances, don't underestimate yourself, and be patient. You should never see rejection as a bad thing, because something better might just come along (like it did for me!).

Congratulations to everyone who got a PHAP position! You guys are going to do great! And to everyone still hanging on, trying to figure out the next steps: don't lose hope. Everything will eventually work itself out!

 

[CHESgirl_94]

Congratulations! I’m so happy for you as I’ve been watching to see your status as well. I remember engaging with you previously on the thread so I’m so happy you landed something better! I was a little disappointed once I realized I wasn’t chosen but I soon got over it. Just as you stated, it’s a great opportunity but it isn’t the only opportunity! I wish you continued success in your future endeavors and I thank you so much for sharing your story!

I'm assuming all the offers have come out at this point. Congrats to you all! Fellow rejects, read on:

Anyways, as predicted after my interview, I didn't get a PHAP position. And I was devastated, because I had my eye on this program since sophomore year of college. So after I basically confirmed to myself that I wasn't selected after all the offers and host sites started coming in on this thread, I began to apply to all the public health jobs I could find. I live in the NOVA/DC area, so the job market is a lot better here than other places. Felt like I was in a time crunch though, because my internship was ending this month and I didn't have a job lined up afterwards. The PHAP timeline would have been perfect.
Anyways, I have a decent resume (for a recent college grad) since I've done a few public health related internships. But it was still difficult nonetheless, because for most jobs I applied to, I never got a response back. I got a few rejections as well. But I did receive interview offers from about roughly 5 companies too. Some were from local companies, and others were from

Wait for it...

USAID and EPA

I bombed my USAID interview for reasons beyond my control - but it was a really cool global health opportunity at the federal government! And guess who offered me a job at the perfect time, just two weeks ago:

The EPA.

It's a public health related role too, focused on environmental health! I don't have to move anywhere (the location is right in their HQ at the heart of DC which is AMAZING), it pays better than PHAP, it's extremely aligned with my interests, and it's still with the federal government! I cannot be more thrilled!! What's crazy is I almost didn't apply- I knew it was a competitive role and probably a million other candidates with qualifications better than mine would apply. But I took a chance anyways and I got it! I type this as I'm undergoing my background check. Should be set to start within the next couple weeks.

The reason I made this post is because I want everyone who didn't get selected for PHAP to know that, yes, PHAP would have been an awesome opportunity, but it's not the ONLY opportunity. When one door closes, another one opens. PHAP is not the only way to get into the federal government. You can still establish a great public health career in the federal government without it. It may take some time, but if it's TRULY meant for you, it will come. Just trust the process, take your chances, don't underestimate yourself, and be patient. You should never see rejection as a bad thing, because something better might just come along (like it did for me!).

Congratulations to everyone who got a PHAP position! You guys are going to do great! And to everyone still hanging on, trying to figure out the next steps: don't lose hope. Everything will eventually work itself out!

 

[sarahtmeeks]

Hey! I have a question, particularly for past PHAP-ers. What is the contract situation for this position? Seeing that it's a two-year contract, I assumed the contract would be with the CDC... but when I emailed PHAP they said there is no contract or anything to sign with CDC (which I find a little weird) but that we will have some sort of agreement with the host site... anyone know any more details about this? I emailed with further questions but still awaiting a response.

 

[rae93]

Disclaimer: this advice might be more suited for those in urban areas. I drove Uber/Lyft as a side gig--something I would recommend if your location has Uber/Lyft as an option (some rural areas might not have riding apps available for use yet)/are able (i.e. have drivers license)/have a qualifying vehicle (or if you're willing to drive enough to cover the cost of using a rental for driving). I like this much more than any other traditional job because I set my own hours and get to be really flexible with my schedule--especially useful around the holidays. I drove a lot in my first year since PHAP first year pay isn't great, and during my second year I pretty much only drove if I wanted extra money for a trip or big purchase. I also liked that I could fall back on driving as a back-up in case of a furlough because you can make quite a bit of money if you had to drive full-time (luckily I only had to experience a 1-2 day shutdown while I was in PHAP). Even when I was only driving part time, if you time it right you can easily bring in a base $15/hr if you're in a busy area. If going this route, I suggest applying for Uber AND Lyft. They sometimes have different promotions running and if you keep track of them with each company you can maximize on your earnings. Hope that helps.

PHAP returners and alum - did any of you work any weekend gigs to make extra income?

 

[modeevator]

I'm assuming all the offers have come out at this point. Congrats to you all! Fellow rejects, read on:

Anyways, as predicted after my interview, I didn't get a PHAP position. And I was devastated, because I had my eye on this program since sophomore year of college. So after I basically confirmed to myself that I wasn't selected after all the offers and host sites started coming in on this thread, I began to apply to all the public health jobs I could find. I live in the NOVA/DC area, so the job market is a lot better here than other places. Felt like I was in a time crunch though, because my internship was ending this month and I didn't have a job lined up afterwards. The PHAP timeline would have been perfect.
Anyways, I have a decent resume (for a recent college grad) since I've done a few public health related internships. But it was still difficult nonetheless, because for most jobs I applied to, I never got a response back. I got a few rejections as well. But I did receive interview offers from about roughly 5 companies too. Some were from local companies, and others were from

Wait for it...

USAID and EPA

I bombed my USAID interview for reasons beyond my control - but it was a really cool global health opportunity at the federal government! And guess who offered me a job at the perfect time, just two weeks ago:

The EPA.

It's a public health related role too, focused on environmental health! I don't have to move anywhere (the location is right in their HQ at the heart of DC which is AMAZING), it pays better than PHAP, it's extremely aligned with my interests, and it's still with the federal government! I cannot be more thrilled!! What's crazy is I almost didn't apply- I knew it was a competitive role and probably a million other candidates with qualifications better than mine would apply. But I took a chance anyways and I got it! I type this as I'm undergoing my background check. Should be set to start within the next couple weeks.

The reason I made this post is because I want everyone who didn't get selected for PHAP to know that, yes, PHAP would have been an awesome opportunity, but it's not the ONLY opportunity. When one door closes, another one opens. PHAP is not the only way to get into the federal government. You can still establish a great public health career in the federal government without it. It may take some time, but if it's TRULY meant for you, it will come. Just trust the process, take your chances, don't underestimate yourself, and be patient. You should never see rejection as a bad thing, because something better might just come along (like it did for me!).

Congratulations to everyone who got a PHAP position! You guys are going to do great! And to everyone still hanging on, trying to figure out the next steps: don't lose hope. Everything will eventually work itself out!

That’s awesome, congratulations!!! It sounds better than PHAP lol

 

[mandibelle]

Just curious to see if there are others waiting for a thread about the 2020 PHAP app. Really looking forward to apply this year!

 

[phap_knowles]

I am also waiting for a 2020 PHAP thread. If one isn't created in the morning, I'll look into making one. Good luck on your application.

 

[mandibelle]

I am also waiting for a 2020 PHAP thread. If one isn't created in the morning, I'll look into making one. Good luck on your application.

Thank you!! Good luck on your application as well! Out of curiosity are you planning to use the resume builder? Also I’m not sure if I should include a cover letter if they’re planning to have a personal statement round..

 

[phap_knowles]

Thank you!! Good luck on your application as well! Out of curiosity are you planning to use the resume builder? Also I’m not sure if I should include a cover letter if they’re planning to have a personal statement round..

I'm going to compare my own resume and the builder's resume and use the one that is is better. Past applicants recommend writing a federal resume, which the builder helps create.

Since the program will most likely have 4000+ applicants and there's going to be a personal statement round, I'm not going to write a cover letter. I want to make the hiring process a little easier for them.

 

[phap_knowles]

I just created a forum for 2020's PHAP.
It's called 2020 PHAP (CDC's Public Health Associate Program).