Student Ambassador: Monica Nyang'oro

Monica Nyang'oro headshot, smiling broadly, looking directly into the camera

Why did you choose to attend Tulane?

I chose Tulane because of its location in New Orleans. As a history enthusiast, I’ve always wanted to visit the city, and the opportunity to live and study here was too exciting to pass up. There's so much to learn from a place with such a rich culture and layered history, and I felt like Tulane offered the perfect environment to grow academically while being part of a truly unique community. The public health program’s focus on equity and real-world impact stood out to me, and I’m excited to learn and contribute in a setting as dynamic as the city itself.

Why are you interested in volunteering as a student ambassador?

I enjoy being in service to others - a value that was instilled in me during my time at North Carolina Central University, where the motto “Truth and Service” guided much of my academic and personal development. Volunteering as a Student Ambassador is a natural continuation of that commitment. I look forward to supporting prospective and current students, fostering community, and helping create a welcoming, inclusive environment at WSPH.

What's your dream job?

My dream job would involve working on public health programs or clinical research projects that help reduce health disparities and uplift underrepresented communities. I enjoy roles that bring together data, community voices, and healthcare systems to make a meaningful impact. In the long term, I see myself leading or supporting initiatives that focus on health equity, education, or access to care - whether that's through research, policy, or nonprofit work. That said, I’m always open to new opportunities and learning experiences, so I’m excited to explore all the different directions this field can take me!

What advice would you give someone thinking about getting a degree in public health?

Public health is such a dynamic and rewarding field. My biggest advice is to stay open to the many paths it can take you. Don’t be afraid to explore different areas, ask questions, and connect with people doing the kind of work you're curious about. Most importantly, remember that even the smallest projects can lead to meaningful change.

Any hobbies, interests, etc. outside of public health?

I’m always up for an adventure—whether that’s hopping on a plane to somewhere new, taste-testing my way through a city, or getting lost in a museum for hours. I love learning random historical facts, dancing at music festivals, and trying to master new skills just for the fun of it. My happy place is anywhere with good food, good music, and good people.

What is the best thing about being a student at Tulane thus far?

As someone who is just getting started, I’m still discovering everything WSPH has to offer. So far, I’ve really appreciated how welcoming the community is. Everyone I’ve met has been supportive, and it’s exciting to be part of a space where people are passionate about public health. I’m looking forward to exploring more opportunities and finding my place here.

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