Student Spotlight: Elena García Fariña

Published
Family Planning
Elena García Fariña

Meet Elena García Fariña

  • Degree Program: MSPH
  • Area of Interest: Women’s Sexual and Reproductive Health
  • Program Entry year: 2023
  • Hometown: Tenerife, Canary Islands, Spain
  • Previous Degree(s) Earned: B.S. in Human Physiology, Boston University 
  • Fun fact: I was born and raised in the "island of eternal spring."


What sparked your interest in public health? 

My sociocultural background and experiences serving Hispanic communities in Boston opened my eyes to the large-scale effects that public health can have on health care systems and consequently on patients’ lives. I have had the opportunity to volunteer through community health education programs, work with patients with limited English proficiency, and analyze institutional-level barriers to care. These experiences fueled my passion for advocating for health equity and ensuring that everyone has access to quality healthcare, regardless of their background or circumstances. Through my work, I remain committed to promoting health equity and improving healthcare systems to better serve marginalized communities and support women’s health.

I feel fortunate to collaborate with faculty I admire on a project that is close to my heart and benefits the Hispanic community.

Why did you choose the Bloomberg School of Public Health? 

I chose Bloomberg School for its outstanding reputation for excellence in research and teaching, the opportunity to tailor my studies thanks to a diverse class selection, and the School’s partnerships with leading global health organizations.

What led you to join the Department of Population, Family and Reproductive Health? 

Joining the Department of Population, Family, and Reproductive Health was an easy decision, given its status as a Center of Excellence in Maternal and Child Health, making it an outstanding place to further my knowledge of women’s health. The Department's diverse class offerings, outstanding faculty, and rich research opportunities provide the perfect training grounds for my commitment to pursuing a career dedicated to advancing women's health and public health equity.

What is one experience in PFRH that stands out as a favorite or most memorable?

Getting to build a community of like-minded peers turned into friends. I have been very lucky with my "Pop Fam" fam!

Tell us about your field placement.

I am working with my master’s advisor, Carolina Cardona, PhD ’21, MHS ’16, on a consulting project for the Exemplars in Global Health: Family Planning. We are examining the key determinants of modern contraceptive uptake in Bolivia. I particularly enjoy advancing knowledge centered on Hispanic populations and exploring the health system and attitude changes that have contributed to Bolivia being recognized as a positive outlier in modern contraceptive use. I feel fortunate to collaborate with faculty I admire on a project that is close to my heart and benefits the Hispanic community.

What do you hope to do or accomplish after graduation? 

As I explore different options for my post-graduation journey, including the potential pursuit of a PhD, my goal remains to continue addressing health disparities and working towards reducing gaps in health care delivery for underserved populations on a global scale.

What are some of your favorite places or aspects of living in Baltimore? 

Some of my favorite places in Baltimore include Patterson Park and Fell's Point. In particular, I love grabbing a gelato from Pitango and walking along the waterfront. Another place a bit further from campus that is worth the trip is Fort McHenry.  I love the international community in Baltimore and its convenient location, having Washington, D.C., and NYC just a short train ride away, and three major international airports within reach. 

What advice do you have for prospective students interested in joining the PFRH community? 

Embrace this wonderful time getting to explore your interests among like-minded, exceptional peers and faculty! Don’t be afraid to reach out to anyone who’s work resonates with you. This is a supportive community, and people will try and help you in any way they can.