I am a graduate student pursuing a dual Master's degree in Public Health and Medical Anthropology at the University of Southern Mississippi. I will complete my MPH in December 2024 and my Medical Anthropology degree in Spring 2025. My research focuses on nutritional epidemiology, integrating qualitative and quantitative methods to address health disparities.Currently, I am investigating maternal nutritional disparities in southern Mississippi, examining barriers to adequate nutrition during pregnancy. I am also a co-author on an upcoming systematic review of Community Health Worker (CHW) burnout, highlighting the unique challenges CHWs face as part of the communities they serve. These projects demonstrate my commitment to using evidence-based research to promote health equity.I have honed my research skills using tools like NVivo, SPSS, and R to analyze qualitative and quantitative data. During my internship with the National Birth Coalition, I analyzed data from the Doula Nutrition Knowledge Survey, synthesizing statistical trends with respondent quotes to inform curriculum improvements. I also developed and presented engaging educational materials as a freelance consultant for the Mississippi Center for Translational Research, simplifying complex health concepts for diverse audiences.Before graduate school, I gained leadership experience as an Assistant Manager at Fika Swedish Café and Southern Flour Bakery, where I managed operations, trained employees, and maintained quality standards. These roles taught me how to lead effectively, make strategic decisions under pressure, and build collaborative teams.I hold a Bachelor of Science in Culinary Nutrition from Mississippi University for Women, where I developed a strong foundation in food chemistry, nutrition, and foodborne illnesses. My background has fueled my passion for food justice and public health, as well as my ability to create research-informed solutions for improving health outcomes.Outside of my academic and professional pursuits, I host a bi-annual plant swap at the Hattiesburg Community Arts Center, fostering connections and sharing the joy of plant-parenthood with my community.I seek opportunities that align with my passion for health equity, public health, and nutritional health. I am excited to contribute to impactful projects that promote evidence-based solutions for underserved populations.