1st Year MPH: Michael Kozuch

For this week’s #IamEmoryEpi spotlight, we met up with Michael Kozuch!

Tell us a little bit about your academic history:

I received my bachelors of science in neurobiology at the University of Wisconsin – Madison. I also spent considerable time in a medical entomology lab studying tick- and mosquito-borne disease.

What are your primary research interests?

I really want to focus in the realm of dementia research. Specifically, I would like to work with individuals to improve modifiable risk factors for Alzheimer’s Disease.

What are you looking forward to this Spring Semester?

I’m really enjoying the increased expectations placed on students to pursue their own interests through their class choices. I’m really looking forward to meeting so many new professors through my substantive courses in CVD Epi, Molecular Epi, and Human Genome Epi.

Are there any exciting projects that you are currently working on?

I am writing a health promotion grant on campus to facilitate bicycle commuting as a health-oriented mode of transportation. This grant will supplement ongoing work to educate and advocate for greater bicycle safety on campus and throughout Atlanta.

What is your favorite part about earning your MPH at Rollins?

I enjoy knowing that every person I meet here will challenge me to be my best self.

What advice do you have for people who may be interested in getting their MPH?

Cultivate your driving motivation for public health early on, but be willing to step outside your comfort zone to learn about new and exciting developments in public health.

What books are you currently reading, or what podcasts are you currently listening to?

I consume 1-2 hours of podcasts daily (on 1.5-2x speed!) covering everything from economics, to politics, to scientific research. I can heartily recommend starting your day with Judy Woodruff on the podcast version of PBS Newshour. I also enjoy hearing my past co-workers on the Dementia Matters podcast from the Wisconsin Alzheimer’s Disease Research Center.

What are three fun facts that you want people to know about you?

1. I have a wonderful little 48 lb husky named Phillip who likes to run and bike with me.
2. My significant other and I both committed to study at Rollins together and moved here from Wisconsin.
3. My favorite eustress is a long, quiet bike ride through some form of remote wilderness.