Q: Tell us a little bit about yourself

A: I grew up primarily in Los Angeles, California. My family moved around a lot, and I went to high school in three states. My upbringing shaped me to look beyond myself and connect with communities outside my own. I graduated from the University of California, Santa Barbara, with a Geography degree. University life allowed me to explore my numerous interests and connect me with incredible opportunities. My research experience varied from psychology to conservation biology for the Smithsonian to Maya archeology. Besides research, I’ve been active in the Black Lives Matter movement since 2015. 

Q: Why did you decide to attend the UW for graduate school? 

A: In undergrad, I stumbled upon Health Geography that opened my eyes to the intersection of spatial studies and public health. The professor, Dr. Susan Cassels, who became my mentor, received her MPH at UW and encouraged me to pursue an MPH based on my passions and dedication to social justice and health equity. I did a pilot study about accessibility to contraceptives for marginalized Californians, and UW is a large contributor to reproductive health and justice research. 

Q: What are your research interests?

A: My research interests include contraception deserts, Black maternal health, reproductive health, and HIV/AIDS. I like to observe public health patterns and trends through a spatial lens because space and place matter. 

Q: What are you enjoying most about your graduate program? 

A: Fortunately, even in this socially distant and virtual environment, I’ve fostered a community with my peers, staff, and faculty, allowing for in-depth discussions, learning, and laughter. I’ve interacted with people from all walks of life with different accolades here for the same reason.