Public Health Sciences Peer Advising
We are a group of experienced and involved students on campus with a twofold objective: to support you in your academic needs and promote the understanding of public health. Although we will not tell you which classes to take or avoid, we will offer insight to help you make the best, informed decision about your own academic career. If you are interested in taking part in the peer advising internship, please look for our application announcement each spring semester.
Fall 2024 Peer Advising Schedule
(No appointments necessary, September 3rd - December 10th)
Monday: 9AM - 11:30AM, 2PM - 4:30PM
Tuesday: 9AM - 11:15AM, 12PM - 2:30PM, 4 - 5PM
Wednesday: 10AM - 5PM
Thursday: 9:30AM - 11AM, 11:30AM - 2PM
Friday: CLOSED
Office: 102 Arnold House
E-mail: peerad [at] umass [dot] edu (peerad[at]umass[dot]edu)
Peer advisors offer in-person drop-in advising hours, but If you would prefer virtual advising, please email peerad [at] umass [dot] edu (peerad[at]umass[dot]edu) to schedule a time. Please note: Students will not be accepted into the Zoom meeting if they are not logged into their UMass account.
Aly Haggerty (Pronouns: she/her/hers), Graduating: Spring 2025
Areas of Interest: Healthcare Management and Administration, Health Policy, Community Health Education
Office Hours: Mondays 10:15am-11:30am, Tuesdays 9:00am-11:15am
Hi! My name is Aly and I am from Woburn, Massachusetts. I'm a senior studying public health with a minor in business. Years before college I knew I wanted to work within the healthcare system. When I originally applied to UMass as a public health major I knew very little about the major. Because public health is so broad, I was able to learn about all of the opportunities the major gives me in my classes and instantly knew that I made the right decision. Over my time at UMass I have loved exploring the field and discovering my own passion within public health.
In addition to peer advising here at UMass, I am a teaching assistant for Public Health 301- Community Health Education, and a member of Isenberg Women in Business. Joining Women in Business helped me meet other students outside of my major and led me to declare a business minor. Taking business classes along with my public health courses made it clear those were the fields I was most passionate about, leading me to declare a focus area in healthcare management.
The best advice I have for any UMass Student is to pay attention to all of the resources offered on campus. I have come to learn that there is always someone who knows exactly how to help here, so never hesitate to ask if you’re struggling with anything! Peer Advising, the Office of Career Planning, the Learning Resource Center, and the Center for Counseling and Psychological Health are just some of the many resources available to you. There is no shame in asking for help and everyone here wants you to succeed. Also, make sure to take it all in while you are here, it really does go by too fast!
Hengie Isidore (Pronouns: she/her/hers), Graduating: Spring 2025
Areas of interest: health policy, health management, health law, health policies affecting vulnerable populations. epidemiology
Office Hours: Tuesdays 12:00-2:00 pm, Thursdays 12:00-1:30 pm
Hi everyone! My name is Hengie and I’m from Orlando, Florida. I am a senior Public Health major and a business minor as well as a member of the Commonwealth Honors College. I am also in the 4+1 program pursuing an MPH in Health Policy and Management. Growing up, my mother worked in business and finance and my father was a diplomat which greatly influenced my interest in policy and management. Throughout high school, I was also really intrigued by the human body and the different ways our mental, spiritual, physical, emotional, and social health can impact our quality of life and wellbeing as well as the policies and regulations that may help or limit us from doing so which is why I was determined and excited to start my studies in public health at UMass.
Outside of peer advising, I work at the UMass Residential Life Central Office as a Student Supervisor. I also am a UMass Dining Sustainability intern where I get to work on interesting projects to make a safer campus climate both for students and the environment. I’m also one of the Treasurers for the Haitian-American Student Association (HASA) on campus and an Undergraduate Course Assistant for Public Health 160. On my own time, I enjoy listening to music and going to concerts, reading, shopping, and hanging out with friends.
My best advice would be to really take advantage of your first year and look into programs and extracurriculars that you would be interested in. Often clubs and organizations on campus require you to be an active member of their organizations before being able to be a part of their planning committee. It’s always nice to see their qualifications and have the time to prepare yourself which greatly helps you achieve your academic, professional, and/or personal goals.
Renee Boulanger (Pronouns: she/her/hers), Graduating: Spring 2025
Areas of Interest: Pre-Dental studies, mental health, preventative care, community health education, harm reduction
Office Hours: Wednesdays 10:00am- 1:15 pm
Hi! My name is Renee and I'm a senior from Andover, Massachusetts. I am studying public health sciences on the pre-dental track with a minor in biology. When I first came to Umass I was a biology major and switched to public health during my freshman year. I am so happy I made that decision and being in this major has given me so many amazing opportunities and I have been able to explore different interests. I was overall drawn to this major specifically because of how broad it is and how it allows me to expand on topics that I am passionate about. I am very excited to be a head peer advisor this year and help other students with their journey at UMass!
Outside of being a head peer advisor for the Public Health major here at UMass, I am the Secretary for the Pre-Dental Society as well as Active Minds, I am a teaching assistant for Public Health 301- Community Health Education, and work as the Harm Reduction Ambassador Student Coordinator. This past summer I spent most of my time working as a dental assistant as well as a Course Registration Assistant for the Public Health major! I also got the amazing opportunity to volunteer abroad in Costa Rica on a service learning trip. In my free time, I love to read and spend quality time with my family and friends.
My best advice is to go to class! I know that sounds silly but to be successful in your classes you have to actually be engaged and present. I noticed that sitting in the front of a big lecture hall really helps to stay engaged. This also helps you to make a good relationship with professors who otherwise wouldn't know your name in a sea of hundreds of kids. Talk to the people around you and make friends in your classes. It's really helpful to know others in the same class as you whether you need a study buddy or just someone to talk to. :)
Thea Lehne Carabajal (Pronouns: she/her/hers), Graduating: Spring 2025
Areas of Interest: Epidemiology, 4+1 MS, Women's Health, Data Science
Office Hours: Monday 2:00 - 4:30pm, Wednesday 4:00 - 5:00pm
Hi everyone! My name is Thea and I was born in New Mexico but I have lived the majority of my life in Germany. I am a current Senior in Public Health Sciences but I am also in my first year of the 4+1 MS in Epidemiology. I chose to study Public Health due to the interdisciplinary nature of the major. I was interested in doing something that involved helping a large group of people and was really interested in research and sciences and I felt as though Public Health would align with those interests. I am so excited to be a Peer Advisor because I have always wanted to help other students figure out their classes and interests and make their schedule align with their goals and to be able to graduate on time and reach their career goals.
Aside from being a peer advisor I was an undergraduate teaching assistant in the past for SPHHS 150 and I also work at a restaurant during the school year downtown Amherst. In my free time I love to hang out with my roommates, go to the gym, read and have recently been loving going on walks around Amherst.
My best advice for you is to stay organized and on top of your classes and other commitments during the year so that you don't become too overwhelmed during finals season and to try as many new things as you possibly can. There are so many opportunities around campus that you don't even know exist !!
Anna Cox (Pronouns: she/her/hers), Graduating: Spring 2025
Areas of Interest: Pre- Nursing, Community health, Women's health, Chronic disease
Office Hours: Tuesdays 9-11am and Thursdays 930-11am
My name is Anna, and I am from Braintree, Massachusetts. I am majoring in Public health and am on a pre nursing track. I chose public health because it is a very broad major with so many opportunities in the health field. Public health also interests me because it focuses on bettering the health of individuals and communities in such a wide variety of ways.
This summer I worked at a hospital as a patient observer and cared for high risk patients. During this job I was able to put my public health skills to use and recognize real life public health issues we face in communities. During my free time I like to go on walks and exercise, my favorite trail to walk on in Amherst is the Norwottuck rail trail.
My advice to fellow students is to make as many connections as you can, getting to know people in your classes can build great friendships and can be super helpful when doing class work. Connecting with classmates is super beneficial because you can learn so many new things from your peers, especially learning about new aspects of public health they may be interested in. I also recommend taking time for yourself. Being in college can be very stressful and overwhelming at times, so you need to make sure you are mentally feeling good. Taking time to do the things that you enjoy besides school work is super important.
Emma Morrissey (Pronouns: she/her/hers), Graduating: Spring 2026
Areas of Interest: Epidemiology, Biostatistics, Pharmacoepidemiology
Office Hours: Wednesdays 2:30-5:00 and Thursdays 10:00-11:00
Hi my name is Emma and I am from Raynham, MA! I am studying Public health with my focus being epidemiology. I am a state certified pharmacy technician as well as a certified immunizer. I chose public health because I've always wanted to help make an impact on communities in hopes of helping better their healthcare and their access to it. I love that with public health I feel like I am able to make a positive difference on a large scale, whether it be local or even global.
When I'm not at school I work at a local CVS as a pharmacy technician. I even run vaccine clinics every Friday, where I am able to connect with the community and help people remain healthy. I am also a part of the Public Health club, which is a great opportunity to meet other people within the public health major!
My advice for a fellow student would be to find your balance. College can be very overwhelming with academics, social life, and even work or internships. It’s important to find a balance that will allow you to stay healthy and maintain your well-being. Prioritize self care and always remember to make time for activities that you enjoy!
Immaculate Kamau (Pronouns: she/her/hers), Graduating: Spring 2026
Areas of Interest: Pre-Pa, Women’s Health, and Health Inequities
Office Hours: Mondays 2- 4:30pm and Tuesdays 4-5pm
Hi! My name is Immaculate Kamau and I am from Brockton, MA. I’m currently on the Pre-PA track as well as a Sociology minor. I chose the Public Health major as it is a great way to understand and learn how different social structures can affect the health of a community or individual.
I am currently a research assistant with Dr. Sibeko in the nutrition department where I am investigating current gaps and inequities within prenatal care towards pregnant Black/African American individuals and the potential benefits of group prenatal care and curriculum. Aside from academics and advising I love to hang out with friends and family, explore, and go shopping!
My greatest piece of advice for those that are interested in the Public Health Major, or currently are in the major is to never be afraid to explore your interests no matter how risky. The field of Public Health is the perfect way to dive deeper into topics or issues that you may align with or find interest in!
Lauren de Melo (Pronouns: she/her/hers), Graduating: Spring 2025
Areas of Interest: Community health, community development, service learning, public policy, reproductive justice, and Spanish
Office Hours: Monday 9-11:30am and Tuesday 2:30-3:30pm
Hi everyone, my name is Lauren and I am from the small town of Swampscott, Massachusetts! I am a senior public health and Spanish double major pursuing a dual degree, as well as a certificate in civic engagement and service learning (CESL). Growing up I was always interested in math and science, but really clicked when I discovered what public health was during my senior year of high school. I love that it is such an interdisciplinary field, demonstrating how nonmedical aspects of our lives—such as public policy, intersectionality, and geography—come together to affect the wellbeing of individuals and communities.
Outside of peer advising, I am the cymbal section leader within the drumline of the UMass Marching Band. Come to a football game to see us perform and don’t be afraid to say hi! Additionally, this past spring I studied abroad in Costa Rica with the public health department’s faculty taught program! I had the best time traveling, practicing Spanish with my host family, and learning about another country’s culture and healthcare system. I went with an amazing group of UMass students and really connected with the professors while learning through hands-on activities and discussions. Two years ago, I also spent the month of July in Spain with the Spanish department’s program at the University of Salamanca. Studying abroad has expanded my knowledge of the world and helped me grow in so many ways, while also deepening the appreciation I have for my family, friends, and the opportunities here at UMass.
Lastly, one piece of advice I would share with a fellow student is to take a risk and get involved! I was an apprehensive student when I first came to UMass, with no idea what the next four years would look like (and no clue how much fun I’d have in the marching band). I would challenge you to stretch your comfort zone a bit and do at least one new thing every semester, whether that is joining a club or sports program, attending university events, exploring the minors and unique certificate programs offered, or going to your professor’s office hours. You never know when you might meet a new friend. Be curious and know there is nothing wrong with asking questions! This university has so much to offer and it’s here for you.
Summer Golen (Pronouns: she/her/hers), Graduating: Spring 2026
Areas of Interest: epidemiology, chronic disease, pediatrics, disability advocacy
Office Hours: Tuesdays 12pm-2:30pm, Thursdays 11:30am-12:30pm
Hi! I’m Summer, and I’m from West Boylston, MA. I’m a junior Public Health Sciences major in the Commonwealth Honors College pursuing a certificate in Civic Engagement and Public Service. I’m interested in epidemiology, chronic disease, pediatrics, and disability advocacy. I plan to pursue a 4+1 Master of Public Health in Epidemiology. I chose to study public health because of how broad the major is. I knew going into college that I wanted to pursue a career in the healthcare field, but I wasn’t exactly sure what. I love how public health has allowed me to explore so many different fields and discover what I’m passionate about. I’m excited to be a peer advisor so I can provide students with the support they need on their academic journey just like the peer advisors have for me!
In addition to peer advising, I have been a part of the Boltwood Project since I was a freshman. The Boltwood Project is a service-learning RSO here on campus that promotes an all-inclusive environment within our community! It’s an amazing way to get to know other students and members of the Amherst area. I’m also a member of the Public Health Club, which is a great way to meet other students in the major. I also work as a lifeguard at the Recreation Center. Outside of academics, I love to read, bake, play board games, and hang out with friends!
My advice for fellow students is to push yourself out of your comfort zone! Join clubs, attend school events, explore the Amherst area, or go to office hours. There are endless opportunities here at UMass, so find something you enjoy! You really can’t go wrong, and you might just discover something new about yourself!
Julia Bo (Pronouns: she/her/hers), Graduating: Spring 2026
Areas of Interest: Epidemiology, Community Health, Women’s Health, Global Health
Office Hours: Wednesday 10am - 12:30pm, Thursday 1 - 2pm
Hi! My name is Julia, and I'm from Quincy, Massachusetts. I'm currently a junior double majoring in Public Health and Anthropology. I’ve always been drawn to public health because it perfectly combines the sciences and social sciences. Living in Myanmar for three years sparked my curiosity about how different cultures approach health, and that experience has fueled my passion for the field. I plan to pursue a Master’s in Public Health with a focus in Epidemiology. I’m excited to be a peer advisor because I truly valued the guidance I received from upperclassmen and now I want to offer that same support to others. I love learning about people’s diverse interests within public health and helping them find classes that align with their passions.
Alongside my role as a peer advisor, I am also the Underclassmen Representative for the Myanmar Student Association and the Public Relations Chair for UMass Illusions. Outside of academics, I love attending concerts, traveling, and having “yap sessions” with friends.
My advice to fellow students is to dive into everything UMass Amherst has to offer! If a club or activity sparks your interest, attend a meeting. Don’t hesitate to try something new that you’ve always wanted to explore!
Alison Martin (Pronouns: she/her/hers), Graduating: Spring 2026
Areas of Interest: epidemiology, biostatistics, global health, data visualization, health equity, mental health, chronic disease
Office Hours: Monday 9-10am, Wednesday 1-3:30pm
Hi! My name is Alison Martin and I am from East Lyme, Connecticut. I am currently pursuing a dual degree in Public Health and Psychology. I am also working towards a certificate in Social Research Analysis. I find Public Health particularly interesting because of the interdisciplinary nature of the field and the ability to tackle a wide variety of complex issues. I found a lot of overlap between both of my majors when it comes to research methods and behavior theories that arise in society everyday. After undergrad, I plan to get my MPH in Epidemiology. This semester I am excited to be a peer advisor to help students looking for guidance or support in their own academic journey at UMass!
Aside from peer advising at UMass, I am part of the Social Processes and Health Laboratory where we are looking at how stigma or the peers you are surrounded by influence health and intervention strategies. I also have experience with the Western Massachusetts Health Equity Network working towards achieving equity across Western MA. This summer I had an internship at Pfizer and worked in the Safety Surveillance Research department conducting an analysis using publicly available safety data on older populations in pharmaceutical studies. In my free time I went to the beach and visited my friends!
My advice for fellow students is to connect with everyone whether it is your classmates, professors, or other faculty doing work you may be interested in. The more opportunities you get in different aspects of public health, the more you will learn about yourself and possible career paths. It is also important to prioritize your own health and wellbeing, so I recommend doing self care regularly and finding a balance between personal and academic life.