Fairness First Blog
Researchers voices in health equity
The Fairness First blog represents a space where researchers share with the broader community why health equity research matters to them, how do they connect to health equity, and what is the value of community engagement in the research process.
December 1, 2023
Student Researchers Spotlight: Alexandra Olin
MPH Student and Graduate Research Assistant, SHERC
In this post we feature Alexandra Olin. Alexandra serves as a graduate research assistant for SHERC’s Community Engagement Core, where she has dedicated two years to her role, beginning during her undergraduate studies.
Alexandra Olin holds a Bachelor’s of Science in Public Health from Northern Arizona University and is currently pursuing a Master’s of Public Health with a focus on health promotion.
Q. What inspired you to pursue a graduate degree in Public Health, and how did your journey lead you to your current work?
A. Going into my undergrad, I initially wanted to get my degree in Biomedical Sciences, with the intent of pursuing a medical path as an OBGYN. Within my first year in the program, I reassessed my career objectives and considered how well they aligned with my aspirations. I wanted to further advocate for health, and wasn’t really sure how to accomplish that, so I thought being a doctor would be a good route for me. Learning about the concept of public health sparked my interest in promoting health initiatives at a broader, community-wide level. Shifting from individual patient care to public health initiatives as a means of health promotion, was something that I found especially inspiring. This is when I decided to pursue public health.
Like a typical undergraduate student, I worked at a minimum wage, retail job, but I wanted to begin working in something that aligned with my interests and goals. During my junior year, I saw a listing for a student worker for the Community Engagement Core, specifically for the Fairness First Campaign, and the rest is history. Since then, I have been able to engage in other projects at the SHERC/CHER and continue to deepen my passion for public health.
Q. What specific health equity topics are you most passionate about?
A. My goal in pursuing a medical path was based on my passion for furthering and advocating for reproductive rights, and creating inclusive healthcare spaces. During my time in the undergraduate public health program, this interest evolved into advocating for health equity, particularly within sexual and reproductive health, focusing on underserved communities. Complementing this, I pursued minors in Women and Gender Studies and Spanish. The intersections of the knowledge from the three programs deepened my focus for this health equity topic. Addressing sexual and reproductive health inequities within queer communities and communities of color has become a part of my career aspirations.
Q. What does ‘health equity’ or ‘health fairness’ mean to you?
A. To me, health equity means going beyond the context of decreasing diseases, and focuses on the social, systematic and structural barriers people face in achieving their health. In order to further the health of everyone, we have to examine systems that are in place, how they play a role in furthering unjust circumstances, and how we can create justice in ways that are specific and relevant to meeting the needs of communities. Health equity means going beyond diseases, addressing systemic barriers, and creating spaces for everyone to thrive – it’s about fairness and justice in health and beyond.
Q. Are there any particular mentors or role models who have influenced your career aspirations, and what have you learned from them?
A. Working at SHERC/CHER has given me many learning opportunities, and I am very grateful for the guidance and mentorship I have and continue to receive. I would specifically like to thank Samantha Sabo and Alexandra Samarron Longorio. The teachings I have gained from working with them and my colleagues at SHERC/CHER is something that I will carry with me as I build my career.
Apart from the guidance I’ve received at SHERC/CHER, I want to acknowledge the influential role models within my family. The women in my family have significantly shaped my values, demonstrating the essence of warmth, kindness, patience, and compassion. I think that growing up in an environment where everyone is welcomed, I’ve absorbed profound lessons in empathy and care. My goal is to carry forward these attitudes instilled by them and apply them in my public health work.
Q. Self-care is a vital part of our collective work towards health fairness for all (or health equity). What is one thing you do to make sure you are caring for yourself – emotionally, mentally, physically or spiritually?
A. As much as I dedicate time to academic pursuits, I also like to make sure I make time for my personal and artistic pursuits. In my free time, I like to do portrait photography, paint, crochet or play my guitar. Taking pictures is something that I find especially rewarding and relaxing. It gives me an outlet where I can express myself and appreciate the people around me. Sometimes the stresses and injustices in the world can be overwhelming, and engaging in artistic pursuits helps me destress and remind myself of the beauty in the world.
Want to connect with Alexandra? Email her at ano99@nau.edu.