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 2025 Peer Advising Schedule
(No appointments necessary, September 9th - December 9th)
Monday: 9AM - 12PM, 1:45PM - 4:15PM
Tuesday: 9:30AM - 4:15PM
Wednesday: 9AM - 12PM, 1:45PM - 5PM
Thursday: 9AM - 4:15PM
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.
Alison Martin (Pronouns: she/her/hers), Graduating: Spring 2026
Areas of interest: Epidemiology, Data Science, Health Disparities, Women’s Health, Chronic Disease
Office Hours: Mondays 1:45PM-3:30PM, Tuesdays 10:45AM-12:30PM
Hi everyone! My name is Alison, and I am from Southeastern Connecticut! I am currently pursuing a dual degree in Public Health and Psychology, and I am also part of the 4+1 MS in Epidemiology. 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 every day. After graduating, I plan to complete my master's degree and work in a clinical research setting. This is my second year being a Peer Advisor, and I am excited to be back helping students, whether it is providing guidance or support in their own academic journey at UMass!
In addition to Peer Advising, I have experience with being an undergraduate teaching assistant and research assistant in the Psychology department. I have also spent the last few semesters working with the Western Massachusetts Health Equity Network, in partnership with local health departments, investigating health disparities and working towards equitable health across Western Mass. In my free time, I enjoy spending time outside with family and friends, going to the gym or for a walk, and cooking.
My advice for fellow students is to utilize all of the resources UMass has to offer! Whether it is joining one of the many on-campus clubs or organizations, or going to the Writing or Learning Resource Centers, these free resources can support you in a variety of ways. I also recommend connecting with everyone around you. Whether it is talking with classmates, going to your professor's office hours, or reaching out to a faculty member, 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.
Summer Golen (Pronouns: she/her/hers), Graduating: Spring 2026
Areas of Interest: epidemiology, biostatistics, chronic disease, disability advocacy
Office Hours: Tuesdays 9:30AM -10:45PM, Thursdays 9AM - 11:15 AM
Hi! I’m Summer, and I’m from West Boylston, Massachusetts. I’m a senior Public Health Sciences major in the Commonwealth Honors College pursuing a certificate in Civic Engagement and Public Service. I’m interested in epidemiology, biostatistics, chronic disease, and disability advocacy. I am also in the 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 science 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 for a second year so I can provide students with the support they need on their academic journey!
In addition to peer advising, I am an intern at the Foothills Health District. I work on a variety of public health-related projects. Currently, I am renaming over 10,000 digital files throughout four towns in Western Massachusetts. 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!
Immaculate Kamau (Pronouns: she/her/hers), Graduating: Spring 2026
Areas of Interest: Pre-PA and Women's Health
Office Hours: Wednesdays 10AM - 12PM, Wednesdays 3:30PM - 5PM
Hi! My name is Immaculate Kamau, and I am from Brockton, MA. I’m currently on the Pre-PA track. 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.
Outside of advising, I am a certified nursing assistant, and I shadow a local Physician Assistant in the ICU. I was also a research assistant under Dr. Sibeko, where I examined the current state of prenatal care for black women and the current gaps that could be potentially filled through group prenatal care. Through these experiences, I have been able to examine and use the different skills within Public Health through my interactions with patients and research. I love to hang out with friends and family, explore, and go shopping!
My greatest piece of advice for those who are interested in the Public Health Major, or are currently 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 interesting!
Julia Okuda (Pronouns: she/her/hers), Graduating: Spring 2027
Areas of Interest: Clinical Health, Minority Health
Office Hours: Tuesdays 2:15 – 4:00pm, Thursdays 1:15 – 3:00pm
Hi! My name is Julia and I am from Shrewsbury, MA. I am on the pre-PA track and I currently have an EMT certification and worked as a pediatric CNA this past summer with children with rare health conditions. I chose public health to be the best provider I can be by learning about health disparities among different communities and locations. I have already learned so much about the different factors which affect health to have a more holistic approach when providing care to better connect with my future patients. I am really excited to be a peer advisor because I went through the process of changing my major last year and the peer advisors were so much help. I can’t wait to help other students the same way!
In addition to peer advising, I am vice president of the public health club and social relations chair for pre-PA club. Hopefully I am able to spread awareness of some public health concerns on campus and connect with and help other pre-PA students. It is my first semester being part of an E-Board so I am very excited! Outside of school, I love hanging out with my friends, shopping and going to the gym.
My advice to fellow students is to take advantage of your four years at UMass because it goes by very fast! Have so much fun and say yes to more. But also stay on top of your academics and seek help when you need it. Balance is key!
Aliye McDonough (Pronouns: she/her/hers), Graduating: Spring 2027
Areas of Interest: Pre-Health
Office Hours: Tuesdays 2:30PM - 4:15PM, Thursdays 9:00AM - 10:30AM
Hi! I’m Aliye and I’m from Reading, PA. I’m a junior Public Health major on a Pre-PA track, but I’m also interested in environmental sciences, and women’s healthcare specifically. I chose public health because I love how many different niches there are to explore. It gives flexibility to discover your passion and still prepare for the future.
In addition to peer advising, I work as a certified nursing assistant and am Vice President of MEDLife and treasurer Public Health Club. These experiences have been great opportunities to connect with others who are passionate about healthcare and service. Outside of school I love to shop, read, and spend time with my friends.
My advice for fellow students is to get involved early and take advantage of TA’s and professors office hours along with SI sessions. They’re a great way to get extra support, and build relationships with your professors and peers!
Bonnie Zhao (Pronouns: she/her/hers), Graduating: Spring 2027
Areas of Interest: Health Administration/Management, Health Policy, Health Economics
Office Hours: Mondays 9:30AM - 11:30AM and Thursdays 9 -10:30AM
Hi! My name is Bonnie and I’m from Brookline, Massachusetts. I’m a junior Public Health major and Resource Economics minor. I plan to pursue a 4+1 Master of Public Health in Health Policy and Management. I’m excited to get to work with other public health students and get more involved with the major!
In addition to peer advising, I am a part of UMass Club Swim! Over the summer I worked as a camp counselor, went to the beach, and hung out with friends.
My advice for fellow students would be to go check out the different clubs and organizations UMass has to offer. They are always hosting events and it’s a perfect opportunity to meet new people and see what you are interested in!
Na'Kailah Jean-Guillaume (Pronouns: she/her/hers), Graduating: Spring 2026
Areas of Interest: Maternal and Child Health, Women’s Health, Reproductive Justice
Office Hours: Mondays 2:45-4:15 PM, Wednesdays 1:45-3:45 PM
Hi! My name is Nakailah and I am from Milton, Massachusetts. I am a senior studying public health on a pre-nursing track. I am interested in maternal and child health, women's health, and reproductive justice. After graduating I plan on enrolling in an accelerated nursing program to pursue a career as a nurse midwife. When I transferred to UMass, I chose to major in public health because the coursework will allow me to have a more comprehensive view when working with patients in the future.
Outside of peer advising, I am a member of a panhellenic sorority here at UMass where I participate in philanthropic events and community activities. In my free time I enjoy traveling, hanging out with friends and spending time with family.
My advice for fellow students is to take advantage of the many resources that UMass has available. Resources like academic support, mental health services, and career development programs can make a big difference in both your academic and personal success.
Hannah Longtin (Pronouns: she/her/hers), Graduating: Spring 2026
Areas of Interest: Women's Health, Community Health
Office Hours: Mondays 10:30AM - 12:00PM, Wednesdays 9AM-11:00AM
Hello! I’m Hannah and I am from Agawam, Mass (The Six Flags area). I am a senior public health major with a focus area in Women’s Health, Community health and education. My main area of interest includes expanding the treatment and education of reproductive health within disadvantaged communities. I chose to study public health because it’s interesting to see how important healthcare is at every different level, not just clinical, and to see how each branch of public health is important in examining health outcomes. I am so excited to be a peer advisor so I can meet so many other public health students and learn about all their different journeys and pathways.
This past summer, I spent most of my weekends in Rhode Island with my family. In my free time, I love to cook and learn new recipes, go hiking, and listen to music.
My biggest piece of advice for a fellow student would be to find time to just relax and sit with yourself. College is a stressful time and once the semester kicks into gear you will find yourself always on the go, so it’s important to have those tiny moments in the day where you can take a moment to yourself and realize that you're here a UMass for a reason, you're trying you’re absolute best and everything is going to be okay. There are so many people here to support you and your needs so don’t hesitate to ask for help because nine times out of ten, someone else has been in your position.
Firdaus Muhammad (Pronouns: she/her/hers), Graduating: Spring 2026
Areas of Interest: Global health, infectious disease, immunology
Office Hours: Tuesdays 12:30PM-2:15PM, Thursdays 11:30AM-1:15PM
Hi! My name is Firdaus Muhammad and I’m from Essex, Vermont. I’m a senior pursuing a dual degree in Public Health Sciences and Microbiology through the Commonwealth Honors College. I chose to study public health because it brings together my interests in science and medicine while allowing me to explore how research can address important health challenges. I’m especially fascinated by infectious disease research and how factors such as global context and socioeconomic status play a role in shaping health outcomes. I’m excited to be a peer advisor so I can help other students in finding their own paths in public health and throughout their entire academic journey!
Apart from being a peer advisor, I’m the co-president of the Public Health Club, which is a really fun way to connect with other public health students through activities like craft nights and volunteer events. I’m also part of the iCons program, where I get to collaborate on projects with people from all different majors! In addition, I work at the Learning Resource Center (LRC) as both an office assistant and peer tutor, so definitely say hi if you see me there! On top of that, I’m an undergraduate researcher in two developmental toxicology labs, which has been a really cool way to gain hands-on research experience. Outside of school, I love going to spin classes, checking out new cafes, and hanging out with friends.
My advice for fellow students is to push yourself outside of your comfort zone and take advantage of the amazing opportunities around you! Whether that means joining a new club, signing up for a fun event, or exploring research, trying new things can help you learn more about yourself and your interests. Don’t be afraid to ask questions and reach out to advisors, professors, and friends for guidance along the way!
Colby Davis (Pronouns: he/him/his), Graduating: Spring 2026
Areas of Interest: Pre-PA, Clinical Health, and Healthcare Policy
Office Hours: Mondays 9:00AM - 10:30AM, Wednesdays 10AM - 12PM
Hi, I'm Colby, and I'm from Taunton, MA. I'm a senior in Public Health, pursuing a minor in Biology and a focus on the pre-PA track. I am interested in pre-PA, Healthcare policies, and preventive care and practices. I chose Public Health because I felt that learning more about people would help me be a better healthcare provider in the future. I always knew I wanted to go to PA school, and Public Health felt like the correct choice to be the most well-rounded in the healthcare field. I am excited to be a peer advisor so I can help support students navigate through the many different paths that Public Health offers.
Besides peer advising, I am also a member of the pre-PA club, which provides a lot of helpful information about applying and getting to know more people also looking to pursue the same career. I am also a member of the UMass Motorsports Club is a great place to meet new people who share the same passion for cars. Outside of the UMass community, I work as a Pharmacy Technician and a CNA.
Being the first in my family to attend higher education, my advice would be to use all the resources provided to you for success. Go out, meet people, build connections that can last a lifetime. Explore the community, learn, and experience new things.
Willa Davis (Pronouns: she/her/hers), Graduating: Spring 2026
Areas of Interest: Education, early childhood, community health education, pediatric medicine, pre-PA, environmental health
Office Hours: Mondays 1:45PM - 3:30PM, Wednesdays 1:45PM - 3:30PM
Hi! I’m Willa, and I’m from Boston, MA. I am a senior Public Health major with a minor in Biology, and I was previously on the pre-PA track. I’ve always been interested in health and medicine, and public health felt like the perfect way to explore those interests while also learning about prevention and health promotion. I love how broad the field is and how important it is in today’s world. I plan to become an elementary school teacher and work with kids on building healthy, inclusive classrooms - especially supporting children with autism. Later, I may pursue becoming a pediatric Physician Assistant. I’m excited to be a peer advisor because I want to share my enthusiasm for this major and help other students see all the different paths they can take with it.
Outside of peer advising, I’m an EMT with UMass EMS and a research assistant in the Quality for All (Q4A) Lab, where I get to work on projects that focus on reducing health inequities and addressing the root causes of health disparities. This past spring, I also studied abroad in Barcelona, which was such an incredible experience.
My biggest advice is to follow your passion! Public Health is such a broad major, and there are so many ways to make it your own. Don’t be afraid to lean on the supports we offer, such as the peer advisors, professors and faculty, or the support sessions offered by PAs throughout the year. I also encourage you to get involved in organizations that spark your interest, even if you’re not sure where they’ll lead at first. Taking advantage of all the opportunities within this major will help you discover your niche and figure out what excites you most for the future.
Rachel Lopriore (Pronouns: she/her/hers), Graduating: Spring 2026
Areas of Interest: Biostatistics
Office Hours: Tuesdays 10:45AM - 12:30PM, Thursdays 10:30AM - 12:15 PM
Hi! My name is Rachel Lopriore, and I'm from Leicester, Massachusetts. I'm majoring in public
health with a minor in business. I'm especially interested in public health's focus on prevention
and the ways science and statistics can be integrated to improve health outcomes. I transferred
into the public health major during my sophomore year, and I'm very excited to be a peer
advisor so I can help support other students as they navigate their own academic paths!
Outside of peer advising, I work at the Off-Campus Student Life Center in Bartlett 103
and also waitress at the Hanger Pub and Grill on University Drive. As a first-generation college
student, I understand the challenges that can come with transitioning into higher education, and
I'm passionate about helping students feel supported through that process.
My best advice for fellow UMass students is to take full advantage of the many
resources available to us. Lean into your advisors, especially during your first semesters, and
don't be afraid to ask for guidance. Keep your schedule full and consistent—it's important to stay
busy but balanced, especially since many students are used to structured high school
schedules. Most importantly, be open to change and new opportunities! There are so many
people here to support you, and we peer advisors are always here to help guide you in the right
direction.
Emma O'Connell (Pronouns: she/her/hers), Graduating: Spring 2026
Areas of Interest: Public Health & Health Policy
Office Hours: Tuesdays 12:30PM - 2:15PM, Thursdays 12:30PM - 2:15PM
Hi everyone! My name is Emma O’Connell, a senior Public Health major with a minor in Public Policy. I’m from the small town of Winchester, MA—just about 15 minutes north of Boston. I chose to join the Public Health community because of my passion for helping people and making a positive impact on communities. The Public Health major is so broad and impactful, especially in areas such as policy and prevention, which I am mainly interested in. I am super excited to be a peer advisor as I love connecting with other students in the major, as well as recommending help and resources!
Here at UMass, aside from being a peer advisor, I am a part of the Public Health Club as well as the Public Policy Student Association. They are both great ways I have connected with students in the major, and with similar interests to me! This summer, I’ve been spending a lot of time with family and friends as I was studying abroad in Barcelona for the Spring 2025 semester!
My advice to students is not to be afraid to seek help and ask questions! During my freshman and sophomore years, peer advisors were such a great resource. I'm so glad that I will be able to help students just like I was when I first started at UMass. Also, try new things, meet new people, and take in every moment as it goes fast!