Why did you choose BU School of Public Health?

“I wanted a Master of Public Health program where I could grow academically, professionally, and personally. I was drawn to Boston University School of Public Health because of its focus on the wellbeing of its students. An email from the Admissions Office directed me to the Foreign Language Area Studies fellowship which not only helps to finance my education but allows me to further my Arabic skills. An entire position at the school is dedicated to student wellbeing. Opportunities like Activist Bucks that allows students to practice their skills in real-world settings.”

Why public health?

“The pandemic is a perfect example of “why public health” because it does not impact everyone the same way. Social factors that are outside peoples’ control impact their susceptibility to COVID-19. I am motivated to have a career in health policy because I want to take a leadership role in reducing inequities. I want to use my knowledge of social determinants of health to create informed changes that narrow health gaps across all groups.”

How have the faculty and staff helped make your experience exceptional?

“All of my professors challenge and encourage me both academically and professionally. It is incredible to have untethered access to people at the top of their field, willing to take the time and answer any questions. The staff at BUSPH are also phenomenal—the entire Graduate Student Life office plays a crucial role in supporting students’ wellbeing.

In collaboration with my faculty mentor, Dr. Sarah Gordon, I was recently awarded a grant from the Institute for Health Systems Innovation & Policy at Boston University. I am conducting a community needs assessment for the Massachusetts Transgender Health Coalition to study access to health care services among transgender and gender diverse populations.”