“After 4 years of working in cystic fibrosis clinical research, I have become very intrigued with chronic disease epidemiology and the ways in which we can target certain disease processes with therapeutics. I also find maternal/child health and welfare interesting after being exposed to various situations in hospital settings where the whole picture of a person’s situation may not be understood which leads to stigma and various other detrimental health effects.” 

“Walking my dog Archie, working out, and hanging out with friends.”

“In 2023, I presented a quality improvement project at the North American Cystic Fibrosis Conference in which I aimed to understand how a clinical research coordinator can better fit the needs of participants in an era of phase I clinical trials for people with cystic fibrosis (CF). Recently, those with CF who are not eligible for many of the life-saving therapeutics are being targeted for gene modification trials. This population includes people of color and people with irregular mutations. Historically, this population has been told that CF is a “white” disease, which is false. Now, we must band together to rebuild the trust of this population to complete life-changing clinical trials that could one day lead to a cure for all.” 

“I would love to be a physician. This is currently my plan after graduate school, and combining it with a degree in epidemiology will allow me to better my future career in research. If I couldn’t pursue epidemiology, I would still work toward getting my MD.” 

“In the community where I grew up, many families (including my own) have been heavily impacted by substance use, domestic/intimate partner violence, and a significant lack of access to adequate mental health care to mitigate the effects of it all. After I received my B.S. in 2020, I took some time off of school and put a lot of work into processing these life experiences for myself. However, it wasn’t until I saw the continuation of these events affecting my younger family members that I understood how strong the cycle can be. Shortly after, I decided to apply to this program because I wanted to be able to invoke meaningful change for folks who historically have not had many people in their corner. My close relationship with these health outcomes has given me an advantageous perspective on their social determinants and root causes, and I am eager to continue learning how to utilize this strangely packaged gift within epidemiology.”

“I recently got my late grandma’s sewing machine, so this summer I have been able to get back into that hobby and feel more connected to her. During the years I took off from school, I worked many hours of overtime to travel as much as I could. Aside from these activities, I listen to a lot of music (current artists/music on repeat: Chappell Roan [of course], Jim Croce, Rainbow Kitten Surprise, and cumbia) and spend time with my friends and their families. Lastly, I am in a very co-dependent relationship with my two former barn cats, Stevie Licks and Florence + The Toe Bean.” 

“Whatever the job title is for folks who decide what songs go into movie soundtracks.”

“Megan Riley!”

“The most challenging aspect of graduate school has been finding a work-life balance that best supports both my goals as a student and my mental health.” 

“My dream career would be to be a librarian! Kristin Hannah is my favorite author.”

“Something I am thankful for right now is my community of friends and family who support me. As we are starting a new semester, I think it is important to reflect on who has supported you to reach this point.”

“My recommendation for a food item is the Cajun Salmon Melt from Nodo (with a side a sweet potato fries of course)!”

“I love dancing, watching women’s basketball, and spending time with my cat, Daphne. You can often find me with friends or crafting.”

“Time management and organization. If it’s not on my outlook calendar, I won’t remember it!” 

“I am immensely grateful for the community and found family I have made over 800 miles from my hometown.” 

“Airliner Pizza has $1 cheese and pepperoni slices on Sundays.” 

“The COVID-19 pandemic is what drew me to epidemiology. I am interested in infectious disease epidemiology for this reason. My research assistant position is an adolescent bike safety study which is why I am interested in injury epidemiology. I am also interested in social epidemiology because I think the social determinants of health play a huge role in public health.” 

“Reading (goal is to read 25 books this year), yoga, baking sweet treats, watching sports, and going on walks with my dog.” 

“I would love to open a non-profit animal rescue. I have a rescue dog myself, and I wish I could help all animals that do not have a home.”

“I am thankful for the opportunity to continue my studies and have a family that is supportive of my dreams.”