MPH Health Behavior Health Promotion
“MEZCOPH has given me the opportunity to explore my passion of working with American Indian communities through the Service Learning Course, class projects, and my internship. MEZCOPH's diverse and supportive faculty and staff are devoted to molding upcoming public health leaders and their expertise has made my experience at MEZCOPH enjoyable and life-changing.”
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Email:
cmnez@email.arizona.edu
Hometown:Seba Dalkai, Arizona
Prior Degree(s):Bachelor of Science, Exercise and Wellness and Health Promotion, Arizona State University
Before entering the program:Working as a researcher assistant for the Black Hills Center for American Indian Health, an American Indian nonprofit health organization located in Rapid City, SD.
Why did you choose public health?I chose public health because I have a passion and desire to make a positive impact in my community on the Navajo reservation and with all American Indian communities. The rates of diabetes have increased to a level that is concerning and I am eager to learn about the different barriers and risk factors that American Indian communities face on a daily basis. I want to equip myself with the policy and leadership skills to make sure people in underserved communities have equal opportunities prosper and equal access to proper healthcare and health education.
Why did you choose MEZCOPH?I chose to attend MEZCOPH because of the diversity in the faculty and students. I am very interested in working with the American Indian communities and was impressed with the faculty who have devoted their research and work in improving the quality of life for American Indians. I also chose MEZCOPH because the college is located close to my community, the Navajo Nation and to other tribal communities.
Public health interests:Diabetes prevention and education among American Indian and Alaska Native population.
Internship:Evaluation of the Pascua Yaqui Tribe Diabetes Prevention and Treatment Program Hitevi Kari Employee Wellness Group in Tucson, Arizona
Interests/hobbies outside of school:Long distance running (I’ve ran 10 full marathons), weight lifting, hiking, photography, and DIY projects.
Tip for future students:For students who are planning to apply and attend MEZCOPH, I would highly recommend working or volunteering with a local or state health organization prior to starting the program. By having experience in working with a community, it will give you the opportunity to engage and be a part of class discussions. You will also be able to share your work experiences and offer ideas when working on group projects. I would also recommend participating in the Service Learning courses prior to your first semester. You will be given the opportunity to meet fellow classmates and gain experience in working in rural communities.
