Why did you choose to attend Tulane?
After working in public health at both the local and state levels, especially during the pandemic, I found myself thinking deeply about the disparities that became even more visible during that time. Those experiences really shaped how I see the field and reinforced my passion for public health research and teaching. I decided to pursue a PhD to dig deeper into the structural factors driving maternal and child health outcomes, particularly in the South where many of these inequities are most pronounced. Tulane stood out to me because of its strong reach in maternal and child health and its commitment to community-engaged research. I've always been interdisciplinary by nature, and this program has allowed me to expand my work beyond infectious disease epidemiology to include social epidemiology, policy, and health services research.
Why are you interested in volunteering as a student ambassador?
My experience at WSPH has been really unique, and I'd love the opportunity to share that with others as they navigate this next step in their journey. As a first-generation student and immigrant, I remember having so many questions and uncertainties when I started my academic journey, and I know how valuable it is to have someone to talk to who's been through it. A doctoral program can be a lot to navigate in itself, both academically and personally. Also, I've already found myself informally connecting with and supporting students interested in the SBPS program, and serving as a Student Ambassador feels like a natural extension of that to creating space for others to feel welcomed, informed, and supported.
What's your dream job?
I'm not completely sure yet, but I see myself in a public health leadership role ... something that allows me to bridge research, policy, and practice while continuing to teach and learn. I really value spaces where I can mentor others, collaborate across disciplines, and stay connected to community-driven work.
What advice would you give someone thinking about getting a degree in public health?
I'd tell them that the landscape of public health is always changing (sometimes rapidly) but that's part of what makes the work so meaningful. The field constantly adapts to new challenges, yet at its core, it's still about people. If you truly care about communities, about equity, and about making a tangible difference in people's lives, there's always space for you in public health. The work can be tough, but it's also deeply rewarding.
Any hobbies, interests, etc. outside of public health?
exploring culture and history (i.e., travel, museums), book clubs and tennis
What is the best thing about being a student at Tulane thus far?
The best thing about being a student at WSPH so far has been the incredible support from my classmates, especially my cohort, along with the peers and friends I've made along the way. Their encouragement and sense of community have really carried me through the challenges of the program. Being in New Orleans has also added so much to the experience as my favorite pastime is trying out different restaurants around the city with them.
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