PhD, Biostatistics
"My favorite MEZCOPH quality is the relationship between the faculty and the students. I've had the pleasure of working with many professors on projects, and they have always been so willing to teach and support me through every step of the process."
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Email:
jameshollister@arizona.edu
Hometown:Hunter, ND
Prior Degree(s):BS in Mathematics, University of North Dakota
Before entering the program:Before grad school, I received my BS in Mathematics from the University of North Dakota. I then received my MS in Biostatistics from MEZCOPH before transitioning to the PhD program.
Why did you choose public health?When I was finishing my undergraduate degree, I knew I wanted to go to graduate school for statistics, and public health felt like the best opportunity to make a positive impact with my skill set.
Why did you choose MEZCOPH?Besides wanting to escape the bitter cold of North Dakota, I chose MEZCOPH because I was impressed with the program and felt a sense of community. Although I was definitely nervous moving here because I did not know a single person in Arizona, I was instantly welcomed into the MEZCOPH family.
Public health interests:Biostatistics, epidemiology, infectious disease, causal inference, occupational health, environmental health, toxic substances.
Thesis:Reinfection of COVID-19 (title still to be determined)
Interests/hobbies outside of school:Running, golfing, eating good food with good friends, playing the piano, and the NYT crossword.
Tip for future students:Be active in your community! No matter how big or small the community, I believe it is important to always be involved and ready to help others, especially in graduate school