Samantha Verganza is a first-generation college student. She is a 4th year double majoring in Sociology and Public Health. As an undergraduate, Samantha was a resident assistant (RA) on campus for 2 years where she created events to help students meet others, events focused on mental health, as well as initiating conversations on inclusivity and coexistence in the dorms. She is currently the president of the Public Health Society and vice-president of the Sociology Club, fostering a safe space for students to grow professionally. For the past 8 months, Samantha has been an intern at the Nicotine & Cannabis Policy Center, using social media platforms to bring awareness to youth on the health risks of tobacco, vape, nicotine, and cannabis use. Through her courses, she valued learning how institutions shape our society, social norms, and access to resources, leading to a passion for addressing health disparities. Samantha aspires to continue to work with Hispanic/Latinx youth communities, improving health and health inequities. In Fall 2021, she will be pursuing a Master’s in Public Health at the University of Southern California (USC).
