PhD Environmental Health Sciences
“MEZCOPH has allowed me to pursue my interest in public health with the support of faculty and staff. There are always opportunities to become involved and collaborate with experts in various sections of public health.”
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Email:
yornelas@email.arizona.edu
Hometown:Phoenix, Arizona
Prior Degree(s):BS Microbiology & MS Environmental Health Sciences, University of Arizona
Why did you choose public health?My focus has always been science, and I wanted a field where I could incorporate science to directly impact the health of communities. Public health allows me to do scientific research and then use that research to figure out how I will be able to positively impact health.
Why did you choose MEZCOPH?Choosing MEZCOPH happened by chance. I was working at ALEC (Arizona Laboratory for Emerging Contaminants) my senior year and was introduced to a faculty member in the Environmental Health section at MEZCOPH. After meeting with her, I was convinced that Environmental Health/MEZCOPH was the place for me to be.
Public health interests:Heavy metal exposure assessment, health disparities, and water quality
Thesis:Investigating water quality in private domestic wells in Santa Cruz county, Arizona
Interests/hobbies outside of school:Cooking, loving my dogs, and topics in Higher Education
Tip for future students:Don’t be afraid to contact faculty that you are interested in working with.
