Myeisa Barnhill

Discipline and date of your BA or BS degree: BS in Molecular & Cellular Biology & Africana Studies, 2026

What influenced your decision to pursue a Master of Public Health at UConn?: I chose to pursue an MPH at UConn because it aligns with my goal to address health disparities through prevention and a holistic approach to health and wellness. My personal experiences and studies in Molecular and Cellular Biology, Africana Studies, and Social Justice Organizing have shown me that improving health outcomes requires understanding the broader social factors that influence health. These experiences sparked my interest in public health and led me to join UConn’s 4+1 MPH Fast-Track Program. The public health courses I completed reinforced my passion for the field and solidified my decision to pursue the MPH degree. I wanted a program with a strong focus on community engagement, health equity, and interdisciplinary learning to develop the skills needed to create meaningful change in my underserved communities.
Background: New York City native
Life Outside Work and School: I’m a self-proclaimed matcha enthusiast and foodie who loves discovering new cafés and restaurants. I also enjoy traveling abroad, staying active through sports, and spending quality time with my family, friends, and my dog.
Your immediate (next 1-5 years) career goals: I plan to complete my MPH and pursue/complete a DO or MD degree to further my goal of addressing health disparities through preventive and holistic care. I also hope to continue traveling to new continents, experiencing different cultures, and meeting people from diverse backgrounds.