May 3, 2024

JSI Scholar: Ny Ha

  • Pronouns: She/Her/Hers
  • Hometown: Seattle, Washington
  • College/University: University of Washington
  • Major: Public Health-Global Health
  • Track: Regional

Tell us about your story

I am a first-generation Asian-American born in Burien, Washington. As diverse as Burien is, it has always been laden with inequities which is what has led me to want to work for marginalized communities. Access to healthcare is a basic human right and everyone should have the opportunity to have their healthcare needs addressed, regardless of their background.

What path did you take when you first started college?

I began college knowing I wanted to pursue public health. After taking more classes in my major, I recognized the need for policy implementation in order for public health interventions to take action. Once I realized how closely linked these two disciplines are, I realized I wanted to pursue a health policy path.

What made you consider a career in public policy/public service/international affairs?

Classes within the Public Health-Global Health major at UW made me recognize how public health aims to support the needs of marginalized communities, but policymakers who aid public health action need to properly represent the communities being targeted as well. As a person of color, I feel a sense of responsibility to represent my community while also uplifting the voices of other diverse populations through public service.

Who inspires you to think about public service?

My family of immigrants whose lives depend on the decisions of policymakers.

What are you most excited about the JSI program at UW?

I am most excited about the opportunity to get to know other students interested in public service!