O'Donnel School of Public Health Peer Advocates

Quantitative Data Sciences

Hi everyone! My name us Kathryn, and I am an MPH student. I have lived in Flower Mound, Texas since I was about 4, but I am originally from Albuquerque, New Mexico. I attended Oklahoma State University for my undergraduate degree where I majored in Microbiology and Cell/Molecular Biology. In high school and undergrad, a good chunk of my free time was spent in marching band rehearsals. Now, my free time is spent drinking coffee, watching Netflix, reading, and just getting to go out with friends. I started my undergrad during the height of Covid, so I know what it is like to have all these different things going on and not knowing who you can talk to. Please do not hesitate to reach out for someone to talk to, coffee trips, or any kind of conversation. Remember you are never alone!

Health Systems Science

What's up everyone! I'm Noah and I am a 2nd year MPH student. I am a Dallas native. My background is in Public Health and I am interested in fixing systematic issues in healthcare. When I am not working or studying, I love to explore new places in the city such as coffee shops, restaurants, and definitely new places to shop around at. I am excited to be a peer advocate for everyone. Like my fellow peer advocates, we are here for you and your feelings are valid. Feel free to let me know if you need anything!

Quantitative Data Sciences

Hi everyone! My name is Melissa, and I’m an MS2 also doing an MPH. I grew up in Houston, TX, but studied neuroscience at Amherst College in Massachusetts. I took a few gap years before medical school because I wanted time to explore and understand myself. (Think Into the Wild, but less wilderness and not as cool.) Psychology, understanding people, and learning about the human experience have always been passions of mine. I even considered becoming a psychologist at one point. Aside from that, I also enjoy running, reading, painting, and anything that involves a good time with friends. As a Peer Advocate, I want to help create a community at UTSW where people feel supported. My goal is to normalize the very human experiences that we all go through but seldom talk about. I genuinely believe that these experiences help us grow, so I’d love to be an empathic ear and hold space for anyone who needs it. Reach out to me or any of the other Peer Advocates as you see fit. I promise it won't be awkward or weird.