Karina Lopez

My educational journey has for a long time been driven by my passion for health and a desire to help others live better, healthier lives. At first, I envisioned going into medicine for a career, so I could make a direct impact on individual well-being. But when the pandemic hit, I became interested in how I could address health challenges on a community level, which led me to pursuing a degree in Public Health Science through the University of Maryland, College Park (UMD) at the Universities at Shady Grove (USG). At the time, I was attending Montgomery College (MC) and began laying the foundation for courses and requirements I would need to transfer to UMD’s Public Health Science program.

During a transitional year, I learned about USG through some of my friends. The small class sizes, one-on-one support from professors and the tight-knit and inclusive community really appealed to me, making it an ideal environment for academic growth and personal development. I felt like at USG I had a great opportunity to grow alongside my peers in the Public Health program given the smaller campus environment, but it also made sense financially.

In the final year of my program, I decided to pursue a dual degree and became part of an accelerated master’s program at UMD. My focus was on earning a Master of Public Health (MPH), with a concentration in Epidemiology. Reflecting on this journey, it honestly feels like destiny. The pandemic unveiled my true calling in Public Health, especially in tackling global health challenges and advocating for marginalized communities. I’m excited about the chance to influence policy, educate, form partnerships, and engage in impactful research, all while building my leadership and public speaking skills.

Discovering that USG, in collaboration with UMD, offers a major in Public Health Science, was a game-changer. It allowed me to pursue my chosen field of study at my preferred institution, reaffirming my commitment to this path.

Throughout my time at USG, I was very involved in programs, activities and clubs on campus. I connected with fellow and prospective students to share my experiences and provided guidance and support in my role as a USG Student Ambassador. I was also a blogger on USG’s Around the Grove Student Blog, sharing my academic and personal experiences with current and future students. I participated in the National Summer Research Program, to enrich my research experience and enhance my analytical skills. I also took part in a research program sponsored by the National Science Foundation, focusing on contraceptives and family planning, advancing knowledge in this critical area of public health.

In the spring of 2024, I ended up graduating with a Bachelor of Science degree in Public Health Science, complemented by a minor in Technology Entrepreneurship and Corporate Innovation. Subsequently, I'll be working on my Master's in Public Health Science with a concentration in epidemiology, expected to be completed in the spring of 2025.

My ultimate career goal is to become an epidemiologist, ideally working with renowned organizations like the World Health Organization (WHO) or the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). However, before I go forth on my career path, I would like to participate in the Fulbright Program, which provides students with an opportunity to study, teach, conduct research, exchange ideas and find solutions to international problems. Being in this program would allow me to conduct essential public health clinical research in resource-limited settings, fostering collaboration between the U.S. public health system and global counterparts. I aim to make meaningful contributions to international health efforts and work towards a healthier and more equitable world.