There's no stopping this global health undergraduate
As a New American University Scholarship president’s level scholar, Esha Kubavat has excelled academically as an undergraduate while sampling everything ASU has to offer. Courtesy photo
Editor’s note: This story is part of a series of profiles of notable fall 2024 graduates.
If the end depends on the beginning, Esha Kubavat has set herself up for success. The Naperville, Illinois-born and Anthem, Arizona-raised undergraduate is graduating in December with a bachelor’s degree in global health. However, she won’t be wasting any time pursuing her master’s degree.
“My plans are to continue my 4+1 at ASU and graduate next fall with a Master of Science in global health,” Kubavat said.
As a New American University Scholarship president’s level scholar, Kubavat has excelled academically as an undergraduate while sampling everything ASU has to offer. She studied abroad in Paris, France, with the School of Human Evolution and Social Change under the tutelage of Rhian Stotts, an associate teaching professor in the school. Kubavat also found spare time to work as a research assistant in many labs.
Although traveling to Paris was an academic highlight for Kubavat, she said it was her research experience that defined her undergraduate career.
“The opportunities that have defined my experience at ASU have been my positions as a research assistant with Professor Daniel Hruschka in his lab on ethnic discrimination and health disparities, and as a case investigator with Professor Megan Jehn in the Student Outbreak Response Team.”
ASU News talked with Kubavat about her experiences as a global health major.
Question: Why did you choose ASU?
Answer: I chose ASU because I thought they had the most opportunities for growth out of all the in-state schools. I knew I was going in state, so it was just a matter of which one. I also love Tempe as a city and think that the campus is great.
Q: What was your “aha” moment when you realized you wanted to study global health and anthropology?
A: I think my aha moment was taking chemistry and realizing it wasn’t for me. I came in as a bio major but quickly changed that after realizing that none of the classes I was taking were interesting to me. I knew I loved science still and wanted to incorporate leadership and service. Global health is the perfect combination of these concepts.
Q: Which professor taught you the most important lesson while at ASU?
A: Professor Daniel Hruschka taught me everything there is to know about ethnic discrimination globally. This lab has been so interesting and provocative that I have to say this is where I have learned the most about the world.
Q: What’s something you learned while at ASU — in the classroom or otherwise — that surprised you or changed your perspective?
A: Before practicing how to conduct research, I thought it was as simple as writing an article and submitting it for review. Working on my undergraduate thesis has taught me that research is a deeply complicated and logistical area of study to practice. This was surprising to me and really put into perspective how hard my professors have worked to get where they are.
Q: What was your favorite spot on campus, whether for studying, meeting friends or just thinking about life?
A: I honestly just loved studying at Noble Library. I always felt so motivated in there seeing everyone else hunkering down as well.
Q: What’s the best piece of advice you’d give to those still in school?
A: My advice to those who are still in school is to work on time management and really try to find your perfect balance. It isn’t the same for everyone, but leaving college I know that my most cherished memories have been with my friends and in my labs, and I wouldn’t sacrifice either. Also, get involved on campus! It can be seriously rewarding to know you are making an impact.
Q: If someone gave you $40 million to solve one problem on our planet, what would you tackle?
A: One of the issues that is most pressing to me is climate change and food insecurity. With that amount of money, I would create green spaces in cities and ensure that everyone has access to clean foods.
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