What would be a reason for many epithelial cells present in a urine sample? was also high for protein.

Contamination: All laboratory results need to be interpreted in the clinical context and the doctor who ordered the tests is usually in the best position to do that. Having said that, One likely explanation is contamination of urine with vaginal fluid. Consult this site for proper urine collection technique. http://www.nlm.nih.gov/medlineplus/ency/article/007487.htm