Why did you choose the Yale School of Public Health?
I first visited YSPH in the spring of 2018 as a panelist in a lecture hosted by Dr. Kaveh Khoshnood, focusing on refugees and immigrants’ experiences in the United States and beyond. I was impressed by the school’s opportunities, diverse environment, and focus on global efforts to improve health outcomes. My decision to attend YSPH became clear when I spoke with a friend and YSPH alumna, Salma Almidani, MPH ’20 (EMD), who shared valuable insights about the YSPH community and faculty members’ commitments to the field. Finally, I was eager to learn from faculty members such as Dr. Khoshnood and Dr. Luke Davis, who are not only leaders in their fields, but also deeply committed to mentoring students. YSPH is my ideal educational environment, where I can learn about the epidemiology of microbial diseases and global health while having an opportunity to practice my leadership and research skills.
I was impressed by the school’s opportunities, diverse environment, and focus on global efforts to improve health outcomes.
Nour Al Zouabi
What were you doing before enrolling at YSPH?
I completed my undergraduate studies at the University of Connecticut, where I pursued a bachelor of arts in an individualized major: Rights, Health, and Refugees, as well as a bachelor of science in molecular and cell biology, and minors in chemistry and human rights.
What are your favorite aspects of the YSPH academic program?
My favorite aspect of the YSPH academic program is the curriculum’s balance between theoretical and practical learning in innovative and collaborative environments. I appreciate and value YSPH’s interdisciplinary approach in teaching and research, and its engagement with the global community to not only advance the field of public health, but also create a real-world impact.
What was your most impactful experience outside of class?
One of my most impactful experiences was during the summer of 2023 before attending YSPH, when I served on a humanitarian mission during the migrant surge at the southern border in El Paso, Texas. Currently, one of my most meaningful experiences is collaborating with a YSPH colleague and international researchers on a global health research project impacting refugees.
Do you have a favorite Yale place or New Haven food?
Other than the Cushing Center, my favorite place at Yale is the Zen-Den room, located in LEPH.
What do you hope to do after graduation?
I am passionate about pursuing a degree in the medical field, as I aspire to bridge the gap between public health and clinical practices with the intent to serve marginalized and vulnerable communities.