Student Ambassador: Roha Abbas

Roha Abbas smiling for a picture

Why did you choose to attend Tulane?

I chose to attend WSPH because, as a Louisiana native and a first-generation college student, I have always found Tulane's founding in response to yellow fever to be very inspiring. I completed my undergraduate degree at Tulane University, earning a Bachelor of Science in Public Health in May 2025. When I was deciding where to pursue my undergraduate education, I was drawn to Tulane because of its academic merit, its resiliency, and the passion its faculty bring to the field of Public Health. Over the past four years, I have had the opportunity to connect with countless professors and explore the wide range of careers within public health. I especially valued the chance to work closely with faculty members on research and was even able to launch my own project focused on women's health. The guidance, resources, and collaborative environment I experienced throughout my Public Health coursework confirmed for me that if I were to pursue a graduate degree, it would be at Tulane.

What's your dream job?

Although I am currently unsure of my dream job, I know that I want my career to be linked to healthcare equity. As a formerly pre-medicine student, I have been able to work in hospitals in clinics to understand the importance of equitable healthcare and healtcare policies and I hope to be able to work with researchers to find ways to make healthcare more accessible and equitable in the United States.

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

I'd say you got this! Public health is such a fascinating field of study with a diverse selection of specialization areas like nutrition, community health, health policy, maternal health, and so much more. As with any other educational endeavor, keep an open mind, be willing to step out of your comfort zone, and never hesitate to ask for help. Always remember that the work you are doing is so powerful and will impact human lives, despite how challenging it may seem in the moment.

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

I love exploring different restaurants, travelling, and baking!

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

The best thing about being a student at WSPH thus far is how supportive all of the faculty and staff members are. Everyone is willing to help one another, and that's so refreshing to see!

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