Alejandra Escoto, graduate student in Community Behavioral Health, is featured in University of Iowa's spring 2019 Dare to Discover campaign. Alejandra is an International Studies May 2017 graduate with honors in the major.
Faculty mentor/advisor: Dr. Daniel-Ulloa
Hometown: Des Moines, IA
Check out her banner in Downtown Iowa City: Clinton, Street, between College and Burlington Streets!
What is your degree program and expected graduation date?
MPH in Community and Behavioral Health, May 2019
Please describe your research:
My research involves understanding the disparities that Latinos in the United States face, as well as understanding what is missing from the research on this population.
In simple terms, why does this research matter?
Latinos are one of the fastest growing demographic groups in the United States, yet their health is still not well studied. The research that I am doing aims to better understand these disparities, and this information can be used to develop an environment that is healthy for minority groups and vulnerable populations.
How soon after starting at the University of Iowa were you able to participate in research?
I became involved with research at the beginning of my sophomore year at the university. Since then, I have been able to work on a variety of projects, from studying Latino men’s health, rural communities, and physical activity.
How has being involved in research made you more successful at the University of Iowa?
Being involved in research has allowed me to use what I was learning in my courses and apply them to real-world situations. Through my research, I also became aware of interest areas outside of my usual coursework, and it has allowed me to build skills necessary to be successful in graduate school and beyond.
What are your career goals and/or plans after graduation?
After graduation, I hope to work on designing and implementing health interventions focused on minority populations. I am not sure where I will end up geographically, but I hope to work closely with these communities.