Where did you live before coming to UW and/or where are you from originally?

I was born and raised in Boston, Massachusetts. Before coming to UW, also I spent time in Miami, Florida for college. 

What is your background in public health/global health?

I have experience in maternal health research, more specifically in public health. During my time at the University of Miami, I aided research on perceptions of Black and Afro-Latina women on cesarean sections where a manuscript is currently under review. I continued highlighting experiences of Black women in research during my time at the National Human Genome Research Institute, where I was a part of the Health Disparities Lab. I assisted research on perceptions of women affected by sickle cell disease on genetic testing technology. I presented a poster that highlighted implications on constrained choice and family planning and published a scoping review about the need for research on black women patient perceptions of genetic testing. 

Why did you choose to get your MPH in global health at the UW?

I chose to get my MPH in global health at UW because this department is at the forefront of thoughtful, inclusive, and innovative conversations around decolonization in curriculum and also in research. I am grateful for the spaces to get involved in my interests in decolonization/racism and maternal-child health such as the Global WACH Center, ARCH Center, and the department’s Diversity Equity and Inclusion committee. 

What has the cohort experience been like for you?

Although UW is a very large school, the department has created such a loving community. The department provides a time in our schedule to meet as a cohort weekly, but our communication does not stop there! The cohort has a WhatsApp group chat that is often filled with plans to socialize outside of class, texts to vent about homework, insightful comments to continue thoughts from class and floods of birthday texts on someone’s respective day. My cohort is filled with love and diversity in terms of age, geographic origins, and job experience and I wouldn’t trade my experience for any other. 

What do you enjoy most about Seattle?

Right now, it is the peak of spring, and the cherry blossoms have all bloomed. The weather might not always be the best, but the cherry blossoms are a great treat after Seattle’s gray weather! 

What advice do you have for students interested in applying to the program?

I think time management as a global health graduate student looks different than time management in the workforce and in any other programs. The department presents many enticing opportunities to get involved: conferences out of state/country, planning committees, student groups, research centers, certificate programs, external work with partner organizations. It can be very easy to fill up your schedule, so it is most important to prioritize your time accordingly.