February 2022 – Sharonda Chiangong
BA International Studies (Global Environment and Health); minor, Music
Hometown: Southfield, Michigan
Affiliations: Philanthropy Chair for EnspiRED Runway; a fashion and philanthropy organization, Programming and Events Coordinator for the African Students Association; an organization that brings together people from the Diaspora to build community and learn about different cultures, and Intern for the Martin Luther King Jr. Symposium.
“As someone who speaks multiple languages, I have always wanted a career that allows me to communicate with people from all walks of life and backgrounds. I also have always wanted to work in a health science career that impacted populations of people on a wider scale. Prior to declaring this major, I was given the opportunity to work in a Public Housing Community named “The Friends of Parkside”. Through this program, I was able to observe firsthand the day-to-day experiences of the residents living there. I was also able to (virtually) meet the residents and learn about their backgrounds and what they would like to see different in the community. This introduction of hearing the problems they endure, especially when it comes to health and nutritional-based resources is what prompted me to start my exploration of public health. Combining my interests in multilingualism and health care is what eventually led me to choose the International Studies Major and the Global, Environment, and Health sub-plan. This area of study allows me to continue delving into various cultures and environments in order to learn how I can help with the disparities and shortcomings plaguing their communities.”
Future plans: “My future plans are to become an Infectious Disease Epidemiologist working to discover ways to prevent the spread of viruses in low-socioeconomic status communities and continue my Content Creator career on social media.”
