PhD Health Behavior Health Promotion
“MEZCOPH has provided me with several opportunities to serve marginalized communities, while simultaneously developing my research skills and knowledge.”
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Email:
benjaminaceves@email.arizona.edu
Hometown:Bloomington, California
Prior Degree(s):BA Political Science and German - AUniversity of California, Santa Barbara; MPH Health Promotion and Behavioral Science / MA Latin American Studies - San Diego State University
Before entering the program:I was assisting the Instituto Nacional de Salud Pública in Mexico with the evaluation of the national nutritional guidelines in schools, funded by the Fulbright-Garcia Robles, Public Policy Initiative Award.
Why did you choose public health?I chose public health because I wanted a profession where I did not have to choose between my career, social justice, and community service. Public health has integrated all three into my work, and allowed me to continuously grow professionally and personally.
Why did you choose MEZCOPH?Community-based learning and research are what drive my passion for public health, which I found to be perfectly aligned with MEZCOPH’s foundational pillars. I wanted to be at an institution that prioritized the community, and given the research produced by the faculty at MEZCOPH, this seemed like the ideal environment to succeed and further my professional and academic development.
Public health interests:Chronic Disease Prevention, Latino Health, Border Health, Translational/Implementation Science, Behavioral Interventions
Thesis:TBD, however it will focus on chronic disease prevention.
Interests/hobbies outside of school:I thoroughly enjoy eating, hiking in Southern Arizona, exploring healthy alternatives to traditional dishes, playing soccer without getting injured, traveling, the beach/ocean.
Tip for future students:Always carry an emergency snack, and make sure to take time to do something you enjoy EVERYDAY to de-stress at least for 10 minutes.
