Hello, these are good questions. Feel free to ask more if you have more.
1. What does Phase I application require (transcript, recommendation letter, resume, cover letter)? How many recommendation letters do I need to submit and do I need to submit it during the 5 day application period in January?
I honestly don't remember the specific requirements but I don't think you need rec letters, just references. But I would check the requirements on the website. Phase 1 is passing the federal screening process, which is done thru the hiring website. If you pass, you will be given a request to submit a personal statement. Then your application will be passed onto CDC Staff and they will review it more carefully and decide if you are given an interview. Once you pass the interview, you're in!
2. How long were the interviews? How was it for you? Any advice?
It was somewhere between 30-45 min for me if I remember correctly. My interviewer couldn't use Skype that day so it was a call instead. It consisted of behavioral and scenario questions, so you def have to prepare by doing research beforehand.
3. Did you apply with a bachelor degree or master's? What made you a more outstanding applicant?
I applied with a bachelors, had good grades, good experiences, and willingness to be flexible.
4, How do you like the program? Pros & Cons?
Pros: affiliation with the CDC, gets your foot in the door, pays well for a post bacc job in public health (at least for me), very good exposure to front line and background public health work.
Cons: experiences can very widely depending on where you're placed. If your supervisor is new and/or super busy, you'll get the short end of the stick in terms of getting stuff to do.
5. What does your typical work day as a Public Health Associate look like?
This depends because some days are more exciting (on the field) than others. For the most part, I do a lot of my work on the computer and attend meetings/trainings/webinars. Again, other associates can tell you they are on their feet all day. It's just the luck of the draw.
Good luck!