#WeAreEmoryEPI: Santino Diaz-Palma
Category : #WeAreEmoryEPI GLEPI
Welcome back to #WeAreEmoryEPI! This week, we heard from second year GLEPI MPH student, Santino. Read more below about his interests and experience!
Tell us about your academic history/where you went to school.
I completed my Bachelor of Science in Biochemistry at the University of Mount Union in Alliance, Ohio.
What are your primary research interests?
My research interests primarily stem from the intersection of emerging infectious diseases, One-Health, and emergency response. I am intrigued by the intricacies that these fields have with one another, and hope to continue learning more about them!
Are there any exciting projects that you are currently working on that you’d like to share with us?
I’d say my thesis is pretty exciting to me as it centers in the realm of some infectious diseases and psychological disorders (e.g. PTSD, 22q11 deletion syndrome). I haven’t had an opportunity to explore the role of infections on chronic illness, so I find that exciting!
What is your favorite part about earning your MPH at Emory?
I’d say the community I’ve been able to immerse myself in. There are so many individuals from a plethora of backgrounds and experiences.
When applying, what were you looking for in a public health school, and what factors drove you to pick Rollins?
I mainly looked for opportunities that allowed me to continue expanding my outlook on the world. RSPH not only fulfilled that requirement, but exceeded my expectations as I have had many chances to connect and explore different global perspectives through my friends and courses.
What advice do you have for 1st years?
My biggest advice is to ensure you are taking time to treat yourself to items that recharge your energy (whether physical or mentally). Grad school can be a lot, but you have to ensure you are taking care of yourself in order to truly thrive!
What are three fun facts that you want people to know about you?
Three!?! This is a hard question! On the spot, I’d have to say 1) I was a chandler (candle maker) for some time, 2) I’ve read a 730 page book in day (I did not sleep that day), 3) I was a varsity e-sports player in undergrad
How have you been spending your free time?
I’ve been reading quite a bit!
Do you have any advice for prospective public health students?
Choose a program that resonates with your passions rather than choosing ‘prestige’.
What is one place that you would recommend people to visit?
I think everyone should take a trip (or spend some time) walking along the BeltLine!
Thanks for joining us this week, Santino! Stay tuned to see who we talk to next on #WeAreEmoryEPI.
