Alumni Spotlight: Sophia Marangoni, MHS '22
- Degree Program: MHS
- Area of Interest: Maternal and Child Health
- Graduation Year: 2022
- Hometown: Guayaquil, Ecuador
- Previous Degree(s) Earned: BA in History; BA in Studio Art from Providence College, RI
What sparked your interest in public health?
I was lucky to grow up in a family where public health was an everyday conversation. My grandfather, an Italian doctor who immigrated to Ecuador during WWII, founded the first non-profit organization in Ecuador focused on responsible family planning. Growing up around medical centers and a hospital allowed me to see a different side of medicine focusing primarily on preventative care.
What led you to choose the Bloomberg School of Public Health and join the Department of Population, Family and Reproductive Health?
When looking for a master's program, during the pandemic, it was important to me I had engaging professors who were accessible not only during class but even after if I had any questions. Since my acceptance letter, I felt accompanied throughout my master’s program. Every person I encountered who works in the Department of Population, Family and Reproductive Health was helpful and encouraging, always willing to talk or guide you the right way.
Every person I encountered who works in the Department of Population, Family and Reproductive Health was helpful and encouraging, always willing to talk or guide you the right way.
How did your degree prepare you for current and future roles? What aspects of the PFRH degree program did you find most useful?
My degree helped me understand how to measure the efficiency of an organization through statistics and program management. Looking back at my time as a student, each class I believe helped create a global perspective of public health. That opened my eyes and helped me understand that public health is a dynamic field that can only be sustainable if it adapts continuously to the changing society.
Describe your current position and responsibilities in a way that will inform current and prospective students about career opportunities in your field.
Currently, I am the administrative director at APROFE (Association for the Welfare of the Ecuadorian Family). Through its medical services, APROFE promotes family planning as an essential right that women and men in Ecuador have. The organization currently has eight medical centers and a hospital that focuses on maternal and fetal health.
As the administrative director, I oversee 350 workers currently enrolled in different medical centers managed by the organization. My duties could vary from measuring statistically the efficiency of each service we provide to overseeing marketing campaigns to educate our community on the correct use of contraceptives.
Do you have any advice for prospective students?
I would say don't be defeated before you try it. I believe sometimes we let opportunities go because we are not willing to face rejection. Understanding rejection and persevering is what creates successful individuals. Also, ask questions, send emails, and if you are truly passionate about a career in public health, make it known. What I loved about being in the Bloomberg School of Public Health was the commitment and energy each student brought to the classroom. You felt that the people in your class saw the change they could have globally and took it extremely seriously.