Frederica Smith

High School Graduation Year: 2011
Year First Awarded the Carson Scholarship: 2007
Sponsored by: UPS Foundation

Frederica Smith is a 2007 Carson Scholar, now making her mark on the world through epidemiology. She earned her Bachelor of Science in Environmental Engineering from Johns Hopkins University in 2015. Frederica then went on to Tulane University School of Public Health and Tropical Medicine to earn her Master of Science in Public Health with a concentration in Global Environmental Health Sciences. She then attended Emory University, graduating with her PhD in Environmental Health Sciences.

Frederica immersed herself in real-life work experiences through many internships while she was in school. She held a marine sciences internship at the University of Hawaii-Hilo, gained skills in sustainability at Hartsfield Jackson Atlanta International Airport, and spent a summer in Spokane at NIOSH’s research laboratory studying mine safety. During her time at Tulane University, she had two opportunities to gain additional skills in environmental health. She worked as a Program Associate for the Louisiana Office of Public Health’s Healthy Homes & Childhood Lead Poisoning Prevention Program. In this role, she coordinated public health awareness campaigns that supported lead poisoning prevention. Frederica was also an Environmental Scientist at Leaaf Environmental, LLC, where she conducted environmental site assessments and routine environmental monitoring.

Frederica’s advice is, “If you have an opportunity to travel, whether it’s 50 miles down the road, across the country or overseas, take it because the lessons that you learn on how to operate in new spaces, be culturally appropriate and adapt, are all very helpful to your personal development.”

Frederica currently works at the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) as an epidemiologist. She initially joined CDC in the Epidemic Intelligence Service, CDC’s flagship field epidemiology training program. She currently works in Global HIV, working to improve care and treatment for people living with HIV.

Community service has always been an important part of Frederica’s life. She has been volunteering with Securing Degrees, LLC since their inception in 2018. The mission of Securing Degrees is, “Making free college the new normal.” Having worked with thousands of students nationwide, they have matched students with millions of scholarship dollars. As a volunteer, Frederica mentors students through finding scholarships and goes beyond advising, sharing resources and speaking about her journey as a debt-free PhD graduate.

Frederica was first introduced to Dr. Carson’s work as a participant in the Benjamin Carson Science Academy at Morehouse College during her middle school years. She became inspired by his journey and career as a neurosurgeon after reading his book, “Think Big.” Frederica was first awarded the Carson Scholarship in middle school (2007) and said, “I was really impressionable at that age and the scholarship helped me to see, if I just stay on this path, college is attainable.” She was inducted as inaugural member of the Carson Scholar Alumni Hall of Fame in 2016.

Reflecting on her own challenges growing up, Frederica offers this advice to current scholars: “No matter what obstacles come your way, especially early in life, if you don’t yet know how to cope with them, find things you enjoy and a passion you can pour yourself into. When you do, each day becomes a little easier.” Frederica is honored to be a Carson Scholar and hopes her journey encourages future scholars to pursue their passions with confidence and resilience.