Why did you choose the Brown University School of Public Health?

As a place that encourages students to explore any and all interests, Brown University was perfect for me. I am a public health and visual arts concentrator seeking to not only dive deep into both subjects but also explore the intersection between the two by harnessing the power of design in health spaces. With Brown's open curriculum and student-centered education model, students like me who want to explore non-traditional academic paths can truly thrive.

What makes Brown's program different from other programs you considered?

I loved that the Brown University School of Public Health offers a 5-year Masters of Public Health Program. I was definitely interested in getting a master's degree and having this program as an option is great for saving both time and money. Beyond that, I found that our master's program is more fluid than that of many other universities. Our interdisciplinary concentration allows students to identify their own educational pathway if none of the predetermined tracks seem to fit. I personally am interested in exploring a mix between health behavior and digital health and here I am able to explore them both without having to compromise.

What do you enjoy most about your program?

My favorite part of the experience is the sense of community. Brown University has a student-centered environment and this impacts how peers interact with one another. Not only is everyone very welcoming but various types of peer advisors are always available to share resources. Moreover, the faculty here at Brown are truly here for the students. They make themselves very accessible to students and encourage student involvement in their research. As a result of this peer and staff support, I was able to create my own research policy brief on HIV stigma in Asian American populations during my first year of undergraduate studies and am currently working with a faculty member to research health equity and intersectionality in reproductive health.

What is your academic area of interest and why?

I am interested in studying health disparities within historically underserved populations, namely immigrants and people of color. As a first-generation college student and daughter of immigrants, I have experienced firsthand how our healthcare system often fails to address cultural and linguistic barriers. As a result, obtaining healthcare or being informed about how to stay healthy while maintaining cultural practices can be very difficult. I want to channel my experiences and those of other community members to address this cycle of inequity that is perpetuated by social determinants of health.

What are your postgraduate goals/plans?

After completing a master's of public health program, I plan to work in creative spaces within healthcare. This may encompass designing culturally appropriate and accessible educational resources or focusing on user experience design within digital health. However, within this work, I strive to continue interacting with community members by utilizing a community-centered design approach and stressing collaboration.

Why Providence?

Providence is the perfect city in so many ways. From the perspective of a public health student, the smaller size means that your work can have a greater impact on the community. Especially since Providence is such a diverse city, there is always someone to learn from here. Moreover, the Brown University School of Public Health has great relations with the Rhode Island Department of Public Health, allowing us to not only learn from one another but also allow students to experience real public health settings before graduation. I also love how calm and quaint yet exciting Providence can be. Coming from San Francisco, Providence is a nice break from the bustling city but definitely close enough to Boston if I ever miss it.

What advice would you give to a prospective applicant?

Definitely apply! At the end of the day, I believe that a large part of your educational experience is determined by the people you choose to surround yourself with. At Brown, everyone is so diverse, welcoming, and supportive that you will definitely find community. You will get to be your truest self and explore your interests no matter what that may be or what it will become.