Meet Eve, a public health BA student passionate about community-centered approaches to health. Her dream is to reduce health disparities in other countries, namely Laos, where her family is originally from.

What got you interested in public health? 

“I wanted to be a pediatrician, but after taking some courses here at U of M, I decided it wasn’t for me. Then I found out about the new public health bachelor’s degree. I have had family go in and out of hospitals, which has contributed to my interest in improving access to healthcare and reducing health disparities; that inspired me to try it out. Eventually, I would want a job where I can be in the community and contribute to more equitable health outcomes for diverse populations.”

What has been your favorite class so far?

“I really enjoyed Family Social Science taught by Margaret Kelly. We learned about health, racism, generational wealth, and health equity. It helped make sense of something I already knew, which is that people with different backgrounds have different access to certain things. In general, the faculty have been pretty easy to talk to and very supportive so far.”

Where do you see yourself in five years?

“I hope to get a master’s degree focused on global health. Ideally, I would find opportunities where I could conduct research on reducing infectious diseases in different countries. I am specifically interested in doing work in Laos, because that is where my family is originally from.”

What do you like to do when you’re not in class? 

“I enjoy going on walks, spending time with my family, and cooking. Sometimes I’ll combine those activities and have a picnic with loved ones. I am currently volunteering at the YMCA, where I mentor fifth grade students. Finally, I love watching Korean dramas and Chinese dramas! My favorite drama is “When Life Gives You Tangerines” because it really demonstrates resilience, love, and sacrifice, which we see in everyday life (and in public health).”

What do you like about living in Minnesota?

“I like having access to so many parks and lakes. It is so easy to go outside and be in nature. I particularly love journaling outside. Otherwise, I am a Timberwolves fan and hope to go to more basketball games in the future!”