MPH Family and Child Health - Global Health
“I didn't know much about the US/Mexico border before moving to Tucson and am I'm so glad I have (at least) two years to learn not only about this border, but immigration in general. The location of the school is truly a benefit, especially in terms of global health. The complex issues that happen on the border can be translated to many aspects of what we learn in our global health classes. We're lucky to be able to get firsthand experience through our faculty's work, internship opportunities, and service learning classes, which will undoubtedly set UA graduates a part from graduates at other universities.”
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Hometown:
Latrobe, Pennsylvania
Prior Degree(s):BS Neuroscience, University of Pittsburgh
Before entering the program:I was a Peace Corps Volunteer in Sierra Leone.
Why did you choose public health?I didn’t truly know what public health was until I was actively involved in public health work. As a Peace Corps Volunteer, my primary assignment was teaching high school students mathematics and biology. My lessons not only incorporated simple arithmetic and the structures of the cell, but pertinent life skills, the science behind hygiene practices, and the study of reproductive health. I felt energized connecting my students to this information. From that point on, I knew I was hooked!
Why did you choose MEZCOPH?I chose MEZCOPH primarily because of my acceptance into the Peace Corps Coverdell Fellows Program. This program allows me to network with other Returned Peace Corps Volunteers, be involved in community service, and gain experience through local internships.
Public health interests:Infectious Disease, Africa, refugees, adolescents
Internship:I worked with Dr. Kacey Ernst this summer in Kisumu, Kenya in conjunction with the Kenya Medical Research Institute. I conducted qualitative research on different community-based malaria prevention strategies amongst families with histories of low- and high-incidences of malaria.
Interests/hobbies outside of school:Being active, Cooking, Traveling
Tip for future students:Find a balance. Graduate school can seem overwhelming at times, but continue to focus on aspects of your life that make you happy outside of school. You’ll be more successful in the long run.
