A Journey of Purpose, Community, and Change at USF

I had recently arrived from Tehran, where I had completed my medical degree. Driven by a passion for research and a desire to further my education, I explored programs that would let me merge my clinical interests with my commitment to making a difference in people’s lives. That search led me to USF’s Master of Public Health (MPH) program—a path that would unpredictably change my life. I thrived on the engaging conversations and mentorship that became milestones of my experience. Taking a course in Global Health and Advanced Data Science, along with a paper on reproducible health barriers and policies in Iran and a focus on access to contraception and abortion, pushed me toward focusing on the health of minority groups, especially immigrant communities. I chose to spend my 250 hours in a hands-on MPH internship at a resettlement organization as an intensive health management intern, which allowed me to work with one of the most vulnerable populations in the Bay Area and to learn, serve, examine, and facilitate access to health care and health education resources for recent-arrival refugee families.

After earning my MPH, I continued my academic journey by pursuing a PhD in Public Health at UC Merced. My research remained focused on immigrant and refugee health, with a special emphasis on women’s and reproductive health. During this time, I also became a teaching assistant, enjoying the chance to guide undergraduates as they discovered their own passions and career paths.

As the pandemic began, I was invited to return to USF as an adjunct faculty member in both the MPH and, later, the nursing programs. Drawing on my backgrounds in clinical medicine and public health, I taught and inspired students across disciplines.

After completing my PhD, I ventured into a new chapter as a full-time faculty member at another university, where I learned from colleagues and worked with students at all stages of their academic journeys. Yet, my connection to USF remained strong. Recently, when the opportunity arose to return and lead the MPH program, I answered the call—eager to help shape the future of public health in a time when healthcare faces new and urgent challenges.

One of USF’s values is to care for the whole person. In healthcare, we want to care for the whole individual, and you can't do that without caring for the community. We need to step back and weigh the community factors that impact people’s health. We're teaching our public health students to examine the social determinants of health that affect individuals, such as housing, financial situation, religion, and education.

We want our students to become stronger in leading healthcare change; we want them to #ChangeTheWorldFromHere. USF inspires me to give our students that perspective. I want students to experience and understand that change doesn't need to be very big. Each of us can be a change maker, and it starts here. Even in a small piece, in my own community, and in my own field.

I bring my research and real-world experience into the classroom. I share stories of working with vulnerable communities, and encourage my students to approach their studies—and their future careers—with curiosity, cultural humility, and a drive to create policy change. These elements fuel our shared sense of engagement, support, and discovery.

Drawing on previous experience that informs my teaching and research, I incorporate it into the classroom through scenarios, discussion topics, potential case studies, and a potential research path for students:

• Training as a medical professional in Iran has enriched my understanding of global healthcare systems, given me experience working with diverse communities, helped me overcome resource constraints, fostered the development of local leadership skills, and contributed to clinical research efforts.
• Serving as a resettlement center health, well-being, and food access assistant has enabled me to examine the social determinants of health for refugee and immigrant families. Furthermore, it has facilitated the development of health literacy interventions and the conduct of program evaluations.
• My experience as a domestic violence caseworker in Contra Costa County has enriched my understanding of the social determinants of health, women's empowerment, and the cultural and linguistic barriers that hinder individuals from seeking care and support.

True change begins within. As researchers and educators, we must learn to see through new lenses—respecting the strengths and knowledge each community holds. Our expertise is most powerful when we use it to support, advocate for, and open doors for the people we serve. In the classroom, I strive to create an equitable environment where every student feels they belong, and I share my passion for learning and making a difference.

I’m constantly inspired by the sacrifices our graduate students make—balancing family, work, and financial pressures to pursue their dreams. My role is to honor their dedication by mentoring them as they discover their passions, gain the skills they need, and prepare to serve their communities. I encourage every student to lead, to find their unique path, and to become a changemaker in their own right.

In my classes, collaboration is key. We work on group projects, research, and presentations, always with the mindset that we are here to help each other grow. Every student brings a unique perspective, and by learning from one another, we all become stronger.

USF stands out as a place where international students—many of them accomplished doctors and scholars—can find new opportunities and chart new paths. It’s a community where every journey is valued, and every student is empowered to make a difference.

Fun Facts:

• I played basketball from middle school through college and even into the end of medical school. Competing in team sports at different levels, even alongside the demanding course load of medical school and long night intern shifts, helped me face challenges, work harder, and never give up.
• I have three children: with three children—one a college graduate, one a freshman, and one in high school—I’m constantly reminded of the importance of diversity, caring, and adaptability. Just as I learn from my kids, I learn from my students, and both help me grow as an educator and human being.