#WeAreEmoryEPI: Meet Sashawn Lawrence
Category : #WeAreEmoryEPI
Meet Sashawn Lawrence! Sashawn is a second-year Epidemiology MPH candidate with broad research interests in maternal child health and applied epidemiology. She is specifically interested in maternal health and disparities, nutrition, and outbreak investigation. In this feature, we’ll learn more about Sashawn, her current projects, and her tips for prospective public health students. Read more below!
Tell us a little bit about your academic history/where you went to school.
I attained my undergraduate degree from The University of Florida. I majored in public health and minored in health disparities, however, when I started undergrad I aspired to be pharmacist.
Are there any exciting projects that you are currently working on that you’d like to share with us?
I am currently a part of the Emory COVID-19 Outbreak Response Team. The experience has been pretty exciting because it has allowed me to experience what “boots on the ground” public health work is, which is different from what we are learning in the classroom but just as vital.
What is your favorite part about earning your MPH at Emory?
My favorite part is definitely the sense of community, collaboration, and care I feel from the faculty, staff, and my colleagues at Emory.
What advice do you have for 1st year MPH Students?
Try not to sweat the small stuff too much. Just continue showing up and you’ll find that things have a way of working out in your favor.
Do you have any tips for prospective public health students?
Don’t be afraid to tell your story in your personal statement.
How have you been spending your free time?
In my spare time I listen to podcasts and watch youtube (lifestyle videos and documentaries). Recently I have been trying to get back into habit of reading books for leisure but that is still a work in progress.
If you currently live in Atlanta, what is one place that you would recommend people to visit?
If you love nature like I do, Sweetwater Creek State Park is a must. There’s a large area shallow enough with flat rocks where you can get in.
What are three fun facts that you want people to know about you?
- I think that in my past life I was a nomad because traveling brings me such peace
- I do not like eggs
- I consider myself an ambivert
It was great getting to know you, Sashawn! See who we interview next Monday for another #WeAreEmoryEPI.
