“I spent the summer in Bangkok, Thailand where I visited two study sites that will be providing the data for my dissertation. My research focuses on vector-borne disease, and it has been really interesting to learn about how human interaction plays a role in the spread of diseases.”
What was that moment in your life when you decided you wanted to study public health?
“I was focused on studying genetics and microbiology during undergrad when I decided to do a study abroad program in Senegal. There, I took a public health course that involved interacting directly with the community. That got me interested in learning more about how to influence health on a global scale, which led me to pursue public health.”
Why did you choose to come to the U of M School of Public Health?
“For my master’s degree, I was debating between SPH and another program. I am originally from Scandia, MN, and after spending a few years on the east coast, I wanted to be closer to home. SPH also has many more faculty doing a diverse array of interesting research, which was especially important when I decided to pursue my PhD. My research in spatial epidemiology is interdisciplinary. There is a very collaborative and multidisciplinary environment here at the University that is very willing to work around students’ needs.”
What is spatial epidemiology?
“Spatial epidemiology involves mapping and modeling how infectious diseases are transmitted through space and time. I am interested in addressing how the built environment impacts infectious disease and how human networks contribute to disease transmission. I want to use these methodologies to identify actionable risk factors so that we can develop meaningful interventions to infectious diseases.”
Are you currently involved in any public health research or professional work?
“I spent the summer in Bangkok, Thailand where I visited two study sites that will be providing the data for my dissertation. My research focuses on vector-borne disease, and it has been really interesting to learn about how human interaction plays a role in the spread of diseases.”
What do you like to do when you’re not in class?
“Depends on the season! In the winter, I love to go skating. In the spring or summer, I enjoy playing tennis, though I’m only okay at it. We also play trivia all year round. Finally, my fiancée and I have three cats and a dog! We got our dog in January, so our lives have been very busy with dog stuff since then.”
What do you like about living in Minnesota?
“I think Minnesota has a unique culture. Minnesotans have deep connections to the state, and I feel a lot of love and community here. Even when I’ve lived in other places, it has felt transitional. I knew that Minnesota is where I would end up again because I really enjoy living here.”
