First Generation Students

Brandon Bond, Master’s Student in Health Behavior and Health Education and Global Social Work Practice, University of Michigan School of Public Health

First Generation College Graduate's Ambitions Are Sky High

Brandon Bond

First-generation college grad Brandon Bond leaves few opportunities on the table. He’s pursuing dual master’s degrees, his very first flight was to a foreign country, and he’s gearing up for doctoral studies. Bond’s adventurous spirit is helping him build bridges between communities and the policies that affect them.

Cassie Gaskins, master's student in Environmental Health Sciences

First Generation Student Works to Protect Energy Workers

Cassie Gaskins

Keeping workers safe while on the job is a passion for master’s student Cassie Gaskins, especially as new technologies present new challenges. With the construction and energy industries booming in Michigan, she will have plenty of opportunities to apply her expertise.

Stephen Salerno

Statistics Served with Love: A Family Passion for Nourishing the Community

Stephen Salerno, MS ’18

How does biostatistics keep doctoral student Stephen Salerno connected to his family’s passion for feeding people? He makes sure every research and volunteer experience is a chance to feed local and global communities with accessible data that helps alleviate and prevent health problems and health disparities.

Cindy Le

Motivated to Be the Change

Cindy Le

Inspired by the community that raised her, Cindy Le is determined to help mitigate health disparities in her hometown of Camden, New Jersey, and others like it.