MPH, Health Behavior Health Promotion / MA, Latin American Studies (Tucson Campus)
My public health education at MEZCOPH as well as my personal background have taught me
that to be an effective public health professional, one should learn how trust and respect are
earned among communities. This global health experience with the Clinica Integral Almas
provided me with the necessary skills to garner trust and respect among Indigenous communities.
In the future, I hope to work alongside underserved and rural indigenous communities in the
United States, Mexico, and Guatemala.
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Email:
dresendiz@email.arizona.edu
Hometown:Rioverde, San Luis Potosí, México
Prior Degree(s):B.A. University of Kansas, in Latin American & Caribbean Studies (Honors)
Before entering the program:I was an undergraduate research assistant for the Center for American Indian Studies at Johnson County Community College in Overland Park, Kansas.
Why did you choose public health?Personal and educational experiences led me to public health. I was interested in learning more about community-focused research, promoting healthy living, and serving underserved communities.
Why did you choose MEZCOPH?I choose MEZCOPH because I believed that my research interests and goals were going to be met at this institution. The intense community-based research that continues to happen at the University of Arizona made me chose MEZCOPH.
Public health interests:Behavioral Health, Border Health, Diabetes, Global Health, Health Disparities, Health of Women, Children and Families, Health Promotion, Hispanic Health, Native American Health, Obesity, Planning and Evaluation, Rural Health,School Health
Internship:Title: Clinica Integral Almas: Intended outcomes and unintended consequence in
providing healthcare services to rural Indigenous communities in Sonora, Mexico.Interests/hobbies outside of school:I like to volunteer with the Mobile Health Unit because it gives me an opportunity to get to know the Tucson community. I also attend events that are hosted by the Guerrero Center, the Center for Latin American Studies, and MEZCOPH. I enjoy walking, exploring, and hiking.
Tip for future students:I encourage future students to take advantage of the opportunities offered by MEZCOPH. Fully immerse yourself in this program and be open-minded to also get involved outside of MEZCOPH through volunteer work.
