Why did you choose the Yale School of Public Health?

I chose YSPH because of the faculty and staff’s genuine commitment to supporting individual student success. With a smaller class size, I felt I'd have the opportunity to build meaningful relationships with professors who would be invested in my growth during graduate school and beyond. I was right! I’ve met professors who will have a lasting impact on my career, and I’m grateful I trusted my instincts in choosing YSPH to pursue my graduate studies.

What were you doing before enrolling at YSPH?

After graduating from college in 2018, I worked as a research coordinator at a women's health and sexual medicine clinic in Washington, DC, where I supported patients through clinical trials studying endometriosis, uterine fibroids, and vestibulodynia. When the COVID-19 pandemic began, I decided to step away from patient care. From 2020 to 2023, I worked in customer success for two different technology companies. While I gained valuable experience in the tech industry, I ultimately found that the work moved me further from my primary goal: improving patient health outcomes.

What are your favorite aspects of the YSPH academic program?

When I entered graduate school, I was intimidated by data, coding, and statistics. Now as an SBS student, I’ve voluntarily enrolled in coding and epidemiology courses. The flexibility of the Department of Social and Behavioral Sciences (SBS) department has allowed me to challenge myself and explore areas I never thought I would enjoy, all while gaining valuable skills that will be crucial in my public health career.

What was your most impactful experience outside of class?

In Fall 2023, I joined the YSPH student organization UHOPE Haven, which serves unhoused, uninsured, and undocumented individuals. Now as an executive team member, I work alongside other volunteers to provide residents of Greater New Haven with hygiene products, menstrual products, and winter essentials. We've assembled over 250 care packages this semester and I’m proud to be a part of a team focused on direct service to those in need.

Do you have a favorite Yale place or New Haven food?

I love a chai latte with oat milk from Atticus in East Rock. Their bread and pastries are amazing, too!

What do you hope to do after graduation?

My main goal is to work in a role that directly improves patient health outcomes. I am passionate about addressing issues like menopause, reducing racial health disparities, medical racism, menstruation stigma, period poverty, and homelessness. Ultimately, I am looking for a position at an organization whose values align with mine, where I can contribute to improving public health while navigating the challenges of the U.S. health care system.