Leka Rob, a senior at the University of Rochester, is making waves in the field of public health by seamlessly blending her passion for health equity with her expertise in technology. As a first-generation Bengali-American, Leka brings a unique perspective to her work, emphasizing adaptability in everything she does.
During the Fall 2024 semester, Leka interned with the Alliance of Nurses for Healthy Environments (ANHE), where she immersed herself in environmental health projects that ranged from research and policy advocacy to community engagement. In this spotlight, Leka shares her experiences and the invaluable lessons she learned during her internship, offering a glimpse into how she hopes to shape the future of health informatics and environmental advocacy.
What were some of your internship responsibilities, Leka?
My responsibilities included drafting regulatory comments, moderating webinars, creating educational materials like blogs and toolkits and participating in policy advocacy events. I am a public health major and it was important to me that I was able to implement the fundamentals I learned from previous coursework and internships to this role perfectly!
Tell us about a project or experience you worked on during your internship that stood out to you, and how it helped build your confidence or passion for a future job or career.
A standout experience was collaborating on a podcast about PFAS contamination, or "forever chemicals," which are linked to serious health risks like cancer and immune dysfunction. I worked with a graduate level intern designing the podcast to educate clinicians using ANHE's PFAS Toolkit. We shared expert insights, real-world case studies, and practical strategies, including success stories like a nurse advocate who used the toolkit to secure grants and launch community campaigns.
This project taught me how to communicate complex issues through storytelling, engaging diverse audiences and leveraging media to drive public health awareness. It solidified my passion for using education and advocacy to empower communities and address systemic health disparities.
What are some of the specific skills and networking opportunities you have gained during this experience?
I’ve developed a range of skills, including policy analysis, advocacy writing, public speaking and multimedia content creation. Networking opportunities were abundant, and I was able to connect with leaders at the White House Council on Environmental Quality, the EPA and various nursing organizations. These connections have expanded my professional horizons and given me a deeper understanding of collaboration and advocacy.
What was the most exciting or rewarding experience while at TWC or in D.C.?
Attending a Congressional Debriefing on the dangers of paraquat, a toxic herbicide, was an unforgettable moment. Hearing firsthand testimonies from impacted individuals brought the human cost of these environmental policies to light. It was a reminder of why advocacy is so important, and being in D.C. gave me the unique opportunity to witness this process up close.
What were things that you were concerned about when applying for the program, and what did you do to overcome those concerns?
Finances were definitely a significant concern for me when considering this program, and I’ll admit that managing expenses wasn’t always my strong suit. It’s easy to get swept up in everything the city has to offer while also grappling with the high cost of living. To navigate this, I created a rough budget plan for the semester, but I also recognized my own habits and made sure to allow some flexibility. This approach helped me stay mindful of my spending while still fully enjoying my time here and making the most of the experience.
What’s the number one piece of advice you would give to a student considering joining the TWC program?
My number one piece of advice for students considering the TWC program is to stay open-minded! Every experience, whether planned or unexpected, holds a valuable lesson. Embracing this mindset not only helps you gain clarity about your goals and direction in life but also encourages personal growth.
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