Student Spotlight: Demi Bajela
A global health course opened Demi's eyes to how caring for people can be done at the population level.
Meet Demi Bajela
- Degree Program: Master of Science in Public Health
- Area of Interest: Women’s, Sexual and Reproductive health
- Hometown: Tulsa, Oklahoma
- Previous Degrees Earned: Bachelor of Arts in Anthropology and Spanish, Washington University in St. Louis
- Fun fact: I played three instruments throughout high school: violin, cello, and saxophone.
What sparked your interest in public health?
My interest in public health stems from my passion for caring for people. I used to believe taking care of people’s health could only happen through individualized medical attention. It wasn’t until I took a global health course that I realized care can also be delivered at the population level. Learning how preventative interventions and systems-level changes create conditions that help people stay healthy sparked my commitment to public health.
Tell us about your field placement.
My two field placements align with my interests in women’s health and community-based research. I primarily work with Jhumka Gupta at George Mason University to support SurrEndo, a mobile gaming intervention that addresses endometriosis stigma among Black and Latinx adolescents. I also work with Terri Powell in the Population, Family and Reproductive Health Department, exploring how community groups, individuals, and government agencies are engaged in research collaborations on medications for opioid use disorder.
What are some of your favorite places, experiences, or aspects of living in Baltimore?
One of my favorite things about living in Baltimore is discovering unique restaurants that remind me why the city is known for its food scene. A go-to of mine is Thai Street in Fells Point—their basil fried rice always hits the spot.