"I want to find ways to speed up processes and improve the patient experience...I am learning from those who came before me on how to optimize operations and make the healthcare system more accessible and efficient."

Where did you grow up? Where did you attend undergrad and what was your degree/area of study?

[Carlos] I grew up in Fresno, CA and completed my undergraduate degree in finance at Brigham Young University in Utah.

What specific issue, problem, or area of research in public health do you care the most about and why? 

[Carlos] Hospital systems are expensive and inefficient. I want to find ways to speed up processes and improve the patient experience. At SPH, we have courses dedicated to operations research, so coming here has definitely helped put me on a track for success. I am learning from those who came before me on how to optimize operations and make the healthcare system more accessible and efficient.

Are you currently involved in any public health research or professional work?

[Carlos] I am a research assistant on a rural health initiative, working to understand how we can address workforce shortages in rural areas. These communities are really struggling and a lot of them have issues accessing physicians and providers.

Why did you choose to come to the U of M School of Public Health? 

[Carlos] I wanted to go to a school with a top-tier MHA program, and I knew SPH was one of the best in the country. We have a proven track record of success and we have a huge alumni network, so I knew that studying here would set me up and help me build connections anywhere I’d like to go afterwards.

What are the reasons why you chose your program? What do you like about it?

[Carlos] I love how diverse the cohort model is! I am actively interacting with my cohort and learning from them on a regular basis. I feel like everyone brings such a rich perspective that helps me grow.

What do you like to do when you’re not in class? 

[Carlos] One of my goals is to attend every kind of Minnesota team game as possible. I’ve adopted a lot of the Minnesota teams during my time here, with a specific interest in the Timberwolves. We’ve been doing great all season so hoping we can keep up the momentum! I also love trying new food, and we have some great spots in the Twin Cities. I love a good juicy lucy and cheese curds.

What do you like about living in Minnesota, and do you plan on staying here after graduation?

[Carlos] I love that you get all four seasons here! There is such a broad range of activities that you can do But I plan on taking an administrative fellowship with Commonspirit Health upon graduation, so I’ll be moving to Arizona.