Stephanie Latorre

Discipline and date of your BA or BS degree: Biological Sciences, ’26; Minors in Ecology & Evolutionary Biology and Women’s, Gender, & Sexuality Studies

What influenced your decision to pursue a Master of Public Health at UConn?: My undergraduate studies in biology initially grew out of my interest in medicine, but over time I became more interested in understanding health beyond the individual patient. Through my coursework, I explored topics like disease transmission, prevention, health disparities, and the social factors that influence health outcomes. I became especially interested in how public health can address problems at the root, before they reach the clinical setting. UConn is home to me, so continuing my education here felt like a natural choice. I was also drawn to this MPH program because it offers more than just academic coursework; it provides opportunities to gain real-world experience and apply what I learn to the communities and populations public health serves.

Background: My interest in health has been shaped by both my academic background and personal experiences navigating healthcare alongside members of my family. Those experiences exposed me early on to the importance of access to care, health education, and having someone willing and able to advocate for a patient. At UConn, my coursework allowed me to explore health from both scientific and social perspectives. Together, these experiences have shaped my interest in prevention, health equity, patient and family advocacy, and improving how healthcare systems serve diverse communities.

Life Outside Work and School: Outside of work and school, I enjoy singing, finding good places to eat, going to any UConn game, and spending time with friends and family. I also love reading a good book, watching its TV or movie adaptation afterward, and then talking with my friends about all the differences.

Your immediate (next 1-5 years) career goals: Over the next few years, my primary goal is to complete my MPH while gaining healthcare experience and further developing my understanding of public health practice. After completing the program, I plan to continue pursuing a career in medicine. Ultimately, I hope to become a physician who can bring both clinical and public health perspectives to patient care, with particular interests in disease prevention, improving access to care, and patient advocacy.

Anything else: I’m so excited to be here!