Q: Which program within the Department of Biostatisticss are you currently enrolled?

PhD in Biostatistics.

Q: What universities have you attended, degrees earned and graduation years?

• Universidad de Costa Rica (2015-2019): Bachelor’s degree in Statistics
• Universidad de Costa Rica (2020-2024): Master’s degree in Statistics

Q: What is your anticipated graduation date from your current program?

Spring 2029.

Q: Tell me about yourself.

Since high school, I have been drawn to both mathematics and health-related fields, with a particular interest in medicine. When deciding on my career path, I chose to study statistics as it offered the opportunity to combine my passion for numbers with applications in various disciplines.

In 2018, during my third year of undergraduate studies, I had the opportunity to work as a research assistant at the Institute for Health Research (INISA) at the University of Costa Rica. Under my mentor’s guidance, I contributed to various projects, such as The Association Between Obesity and Mortality in a Cohort of Older Costa Rican Adults, Inequities in Early Detection of Cervical Cancer, and Women’s Participation in Pap Smear Screening in a Developing Country: Evidence for Improving Health Systems. These experiences allowed me to merge my statistical training with my growing interest in public health.

After earning my bachelor’s degree, I pursued an academic master’s degree in Statistics at the University of Costa Rica. I also joined the faculty as an instructor in the School of Statistics and continued collaborating on health research projects at INISA. Furthermore, I began volunteering at the Central American Population Center, where I participated in the project Exploring the Relationship Between Suicide and Inequity Conditions Through the Lens of Social Determinants of Health in Costa Rica (2009-2013 and 2018-2022).

Because teaching and research are my main professional interests, I sought opportunities to further specialize in biostatistics. I applied for the Fulbright scholarship program and, while researching universities, I came across the University of Alabama at Birmingham (UAB). Its national reputation in public health and biostatistics, combined with the opportunity to work as a research assistant, greatly appealed to me. My goal of gaining practical experience in health-related projects aligned perfectly with what UAB had to offer, making it my ideal choice.

Q: Why did you choose to study Biostatistics? And why at UAB?

My academic journey began with a focus on statistics, but my interest in public health grew as I participated in research addressing health disparities. Working on different health related problems helped me see the significant role environmental and social determinants play in shaping health outcomes. This realization motivated me to pursue biostatistics, as it integrates a systems-level approach to understanding and solving health issues.

UAB’s strong reputation in public health and its emphasis on interdisciplinary research made it my top choice. The program's focus on real-world applications and the opportunity to collaborate on research projects aligned with my goal of addressing health inequities and improving access to quality healthcare for underserved populations.

Q: Is there a faculty member who has made an impact on your academic journey during this program?

Dr. Chichi Aban, my advisor, has been instrumental in exposing me to practical problems in health research. Working with her as a research assistant has allowed me to tackle real-world cases that require innovative solutions and effective communication of results to professionals in other fields. This experience has strengthened both my analytical and interdisciplinary collaboration skills.

Dr. Hemant Tiwari, who teaches Statistical Theory I, has played a key role in reinforcing my foundational knowledge. His teaching has deepened my understanding of core concepts.

Q: Have you been involved in any interesting projects or organizations during your time here?

Yes, I have been working on one project and I am excited to start another one soon. The first project has given me valuable experience in generalized linear mixed models and repeated measures analysis, which has enhanced my understanding of statistical methods in longitudinal data.

Q: What’s been your favorite class in the School of Public Health and why?

Since this is my first semester, I don’t have many options to choose from, but so far, I would say that my favorite class has been Statistical Theory.