Why did you choose to attend Tulane?
I chose the Celia Scott Weatherhead School of Public Health and Tropical Medicine because it offers incredible research opportunities that allow students to tackle real-world public health challenges through hands-on learning and innovation. I was also drawn to the strong network of connections that the School of Public Health has with global organizations like the Gates Foundation, local health departments, and community partners which creates so many meaningful opportunities for professional growth and collaboration. What truly sets Weatherhead School of Public Health (WSPH) apart for me is its diverse and inclusive community, where students from all backgrounds come together to share ideas and work toward domestic and global health equity. Most of all, the supportive and approachable faculty create an environment that encourages curiosity, learning, and personal development, making WSPH the ideal place for me to grow as a future public health professional.
What's your dream job?
My dream job is to work in program evaluation within global health, addressing HIV/AIDS, STIs, and Hepatitis both domestically and in low- and middle-income countries. I am especially drawn to organizations like CDC, CDC Global and the Gates Foundation, which use research and evaluation to develop data-informed and equitable solutions that improve health outcomes worldwide.
What advice would you give someone thinking about getting a degree in public health?
Public health is an incredibly versatile field. From studying the biological mechanisms of diseases and their transmission, to analyzing large data sets to uncover trends and patterns, to evaluating programs and shaping effective health policies, public health offers a wide range of paths to explore. Yet, no matter the focus, everyone works toward a common goal: improving the health and well-being of communities. If you're someone interested in multiple disciplines, I highly recommend pursuing public health, because it's one of the few fields where all these areas come together for the greater good.
Any hobbies, interests, etc. outside of public health?
My hobbies include traveling to different states and countries, where I enjoy learning about local cultures and cuisines. I also love planning and organizing events such as birthday parties, bridal showers, and family trips, as they allow me to bring people together and create meaningful experiences.
What is the best thing about being a student at Tulane thus far?
The best part of being a WSPH student is connecting with people from all over the world. Working with classmates from different backgrounds and cultures has helped me understand their passions, career experiences, and perspectives, making every project a learning experience beyond the classroom. I've had the opportunity to meet peers from Colombia, El Salvador, Panama, India, Bangladesh, Egypt, Togo, Ethiopia, Spain, Nigeria and people from all over the United States; each bringing unique insights that have enriched my academic and personal growth.
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