Alumni Spotlight: Aries Nuño, MSPH '23
- Degree Program: MSPH
- Area of Interest: Women's, Sexual and Reproductive Health
- Graduation Year: 2023
- Hometown: Balch Springs, TX
- Previous Degree(s) Earned: BS in Public Health, University of North Texas
What sparked your interest in public health?
For as long as I can remember, I have always been driven to support my community through volunteer opportunities, which allowed me to witness firsthand the need for accessible and equitable health services. From AmeriCorps to the Peace Corps, my passion for public health grew, especially while serving in the Peace Corps in Lesotho, where I worked as an HIV/AIDS Prevention Specialist. This experience opened my eyes to the profound impact that public health initiatives can have on an individual's life, particularly in underserved and marginalized communities. I desired to pursue a career focused on creating sustainable, culturally sensitive health solutions that empower individuals and improve sexual health outcomes worldwide.
What led you to choose Bloomberg School of Public Health and join the Department of Population, Family and Reproductive Health?
The Bloomberg School's renowned reputation and strong focus on Women's Sexual and Reproductive Health were major factors in my decision. The Department of Population, Family, and Reproductive Health (PFRH) offered a curriculum that aligned perfectly with my interests regarding socio-cultural implications on sexual and reproductive health.
How did your degree prepare you for current and future roles? What aspects of the PFRH degree program did you find most useful?
The degree program provided me with essential skills in qualitative and quantitative research, data analysis, and program development. My focus on female genital mutilation/cutting (FGM/C) and assisting with local and international projects on this topic significantly built my foundational and applicable skills. These projects required in-depth research and practical application of my studies, culminating in my master’s thesis on FGM/C (Exploring the Experiences of FGM/C Affected Migrant Women in Western Nations: A Scoping Review of Accessing Sexual and Reproductive Health Services).
Balancing academics with practical experiences is valuable, but finding your unique path and staying true to your passions is what will ultimately lead to a fulfilling career and personal growth.
Describe your current position and responsibilities in a way that will inform current and prospective students about career opportunities in your field.
As the Training and Technical Assistance Coordinator at Sahiyo, my role revolves around designing and implementing educational and advocacy programs to address FGM/C, primarily in the US. My primary responsibilities include developing training modules tailored to diverse audiences, establishing partnerships with NGOs, governmental bodies, and community organizations, project management and capacity building of local and international partners by providing training and technical assistance, and producing comprehensive reports that showcase program outcomes, organizational impact, and areas for improvement.
How did you build your sense of community during your time as a PFRH student?
While it's easy to get caught up in schoolwork, meeting deadlines, and writing papers, It was important for me to set aside time for social and outdoor activities. Whether it was grabbing ice cream with a friend, attending a board game night, or a day hike, these moments helped me connect with my peers and have a much-needed break with fresh air!
What was your favorite thing about living in Baltimore while you were a student?
While I lived in Baltimore briefly, I enjoyed engaging with community locals who shared stories about the city's history and what they personally loved about it. Their tales of Baltimore's past gave me a deeper appreciation for the city's rich cultural heritage. One of my favorite places to study on weekends was the Peabody Library, with its stunning architecture and calming atmosphere.
Do you have any advice for prospective students?
I would encourage prospective students to actively engage with the community, both on and off-campus. It's important to take advantage of networking opportunities, seek mentorship, and participate in research or volunteer activities. However, it's equally important not to get caught up in the prestige or the allure of what others are doing. While some opportunities may seem competitive, remember that the goal is not to compete or outdo your peers; instead, you should focus on discovering what opportunities truly with your interests and goals. Balancing academics with practical experiences is valuable, but finding your unique path and staying true to your passions is what will ultimately lead to a fulfilling career and personal growth.