Meet Sofia Olay: An Inspiring Graduate from UNM’s College of Population Health

As Sofia Olay gets ready to graduate with a Master of Public Health (MPH) from The University of New Mexico, she brings more than just a diploma. She carries a vision for public health molded by her experiences and challenges.

Her journey to graduation wasn’t straightforward. Olay finished her bachelor’s in humanities just before the COVID-19 pandemic began. The pandemic sparked her interest in public health.

“It fueled my curiosity about how essential data and epidemiology are in global health,” Olay explains. This curiosity led her to UNM’s College of Population Health, where she found a blend of rigorous academics and a supportive community. Here, practical learning and collaboration were at the forefront.

A significant moment in her education came when she traveled to Colombia for a research project. As part of a fellowship, she studied access to cancer treatment, examining social and economic disparities.

“This experience was pivotal. It opened my eyes to global health issues,” she says. Olay learned how health systems are often fragmented, affected by income and socioeconomic status. This revelation showed her how living conditions deeply impact health and highlighted the political aspects involved in public health.

Now back in New Mexico, Olay focuses on research about cancer disparities in underserved communities. Her time in Colombia wasn’t just an academic milestone; it provided her with clarity and confidence to pursue a meaningful career in public health research.

Olay’s graduate work reflects her desire to integrate her background in humanities with her developing public health expertise. “We need both doctors to treat health issues and public health practitioners to manage community health,” she notes. This dual approach is crucial because addressing health at the community level requires different strategies than individual care.

At first, Olay had doubts about pursuing an MPH. Like many students, she balanced school, work, and the pressures of the pandemic. However, she praises the COPH faculty for creating a nurturing learning environment.

Her advice to prospective students? Don’t hesitate to explore your interests. “Public health is a diverse field. Whether you’re interested in policy, data, or community work, there’s a place for you.”

Sofia Olay’s story shows what can happen when passion converges with purpose. With support and determination, students can turn their questions into impactful actions in public health.

Recent data underscores the importance of graduates like Olay. According to a report by the Association of Schools and Programs of Public Health, 87% of public health graduates feel prepared to tackle global health challenges. This highlights the growing demand for skilled professionals in the field.

For those interested, you can learn more about the Master of Public Health program here.

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