Engaged Learning

Laura Arboleda-Merino

From third grade dream to public health innovator

Laura Arboleda-Merino, MPH ’17

An internship at a local health department further crystallized Laura Arboleda-Merino's interests in public health. She was no longer just interested in treating individual patients, but in understanding and addressing systemic health challenges. Her academic journey led her to the University of Michigan School of Public Health. The transition wasn’t just about academic advancement but about finding a community that resonated with her interdisciplinary approach.

Eesha Acharya at the Public Health Honors

Transforming global health through compassionate research

Eesha Acharya, BA ’25

Eesha Acharya earned a dual degree in degree in Community and Global Public Health and in Economics as well as a minor in Public Policy from the University of Michigan to form a unique approach to solving complex global challenges. She was named the Student Leader of the Year at the Public Health Honors event in the spring, and her involvement with the Global Health Alliance was a cornerstone of her college experience at Michigan Public Health.

Isabelle Duong wearing her graduation gown

Childhood challenges shape public health advocate's inspiring journey

Isabelle Duong, BS ’24

As a child—as young as 9—Isabelle Duong was thrust into the complexities of healthcare systems. Both of her parents are Vietnamese refugees who fled during the Vietnam War, and navigating the American and Canadian healthcare systems for her mother, who battles lupus, fell on Duong. The experience not only had a great influence on her views of public health but also encouraged her to champion student voices on public health issues.

Nathan Szeto

Merging mathematics expertise with public health

Nathan Szeto, MS ’25

Nathan Szeto knows the power of numbers. As a Master of Science student in Biostatistics at the University of Michigan School of Public Health, he’s found a way to combine his love for mathematics with his desire to help others. His persistence and curiosity led him to a field where he can make a significant impact.

Karly Miller

Passion for sports meets drive for healthier world through nutrition consulting

Karly Miller, MS ’25

Karly Miller has known since elementary school that she wanted to help people live happier, healthier lives through informed nutrition. Her drive for public health and passion for sports led her to the University of Michigan School of Public Health, where she found an outpouring of support from program directors.

From left, Katie Romas, holding their daughter and her husband, AJ Pope, holding their son

US Coast Guard officer navigates path to public health

Katie Romas, MPH ’25

Working with the Coast Guard’s Incident Management Assist Team, Katie Romas tackled real-world challenges, ranging from hurricane response to oil spills. These situations required her to coordinate efforts with other agencies, writing safety plans and minimizing environmental impact. She often found herself impressed by the work of industrial hygienists, the specialists who ensure the safety of responders and subsequently the environment during emergencies.