Degree Program: PhD, Environmental Health Sciences

Hometown: Toronto, Ontario, Canada

Majors: HBSc Molecular and Cellular Biology, University of Toronto; MS Environmental Health Sciences, University of Arizona

Why choose public health/What’s awesome about Public Health? I’ve always been interested in working in healthcare and saw public health as a diverse and growing field, with great potential to impact many communities; capturing and educating individuals at the prevention stage.

Why choose the University of Arizona/MEZCOPH: I started my undergrad at UA, before moving back to Canada after my second year. During this time, I got to know the campus quite well. A couple of years after I had completed my bachelor’s degree, I started looking into different graduate programs. When the opportunity presented itself, I decided to apply to the program at MEZCOPH since I was already familiar with the vibrant city.

Public Health interests: Infectious disease spread, prevention, and containment

Fun fact about you and/or your interests/hobbies outside of school: Cooking, hiking, travel, cultural exchange

One piece of advice for future students: Network and get to know people, not only those in your field of study but outside of it. Don’t be afraid to ask questions or make first contact. Also, take all opportunities to present work, those skills will only aid you down the road as well as build confidence.