What was it that inspired you to pursue a career in epidemiology?
For my undergraduate thesis at the UW in the public health major, I completed a two year IRB-approved study to measure adherence rates for required school vaccinations at the Vashon Island School District. At the end of the first year, my preliminary analysis resulted in changes to the School District’s policy and allowed me to measure the statistically significant rise in reported vaccinations due to policy change during the second year of the study. Seeing my work directly impact health on a community level inspired me to pursue epidemiology. 

Where do you work and what do you do?
I work at the Injury Center at Harborview and have since last January. While there I ran a state wide needs assessment for students returning to school following a traumatic brain injury. I am currently working in the Methods Core providing study design consultation. 

What do you like about living in Seattle?
I love the mix of different cultures, the cafe scene, and the amazing food and live music venues.

What do you like to do in your spare time?
My hobbies include cooking, dancing, and my dog. And travel. But mostly feeding people.