Meet the students from the College of Public Health and Health Professions, a diverse group dedicated to improving health and well-being in communities around the world. These students come from various backgrounds, united by their passion for health and their commitment to making a positive impact. They bring unique perspectives and experiences to their studies, preparing to become the next generation of health professionals who will address pressing health challenges and advance their field.
Meet: Bianca Punch
Program:Â Public Health, Ph.D., Environmental Health concentration
Undergraduate Degree: Bachelors degree in Biology and Masters degree in Public Health from St. George’s University
Research Interests: I am interested in studying the relationship between climate change and health, particularly vector-borne diseases and other infectious disease.
Why did you choose the University of Florida?
I chose University of Florida because the research being done aligned with my own interests. The prospect of working with the Emerging Pathogens Institute attracted me as well as the fact that the department does a lot of research in my home region, the Caribbean.
What philosophy guides you in your education?
Perseverance is the key to success.
What research experience do you have?
I worked as a research assistant for the Windward Islands Education and Research Foundation in Grenada on a project that sought to examine the neurodevelopmental impact of the ZIKA virus on children born during the time of the outbreak in Grenada.
If you could solve one environmental and/or global health problem, what would it be?
The climate change crisis.
What are your career goals?
I would like to pursue a career in academia as an Environmental Health scientist.
Want to learn more?
If you’d like to learn more about the Ph.D. in Public Health, One Health concentration, click here.
Hey, current PHHP students! Want to share your story? Click here to learn how!