Alex is a graduate of The Ohio State University, where he earned a B.S. in Public Health with a specialization in Environmental Public Health. He has dedicated himself to studying public health and pursuing research-driven solutions to address health inequities, working as a research assistant at Nationwide Children’s Hospital and as an intern at the White House Office of National Drug Control Policy. His journey has been shaped by the morals instilled by his parents, who immigrated from Mexico, his lived experiences growing up in Back of the Yards, Chicago, and his desire to become a physician dedicated to shaping national policy through research.
Field placement: UCI Basic Needs Center
Irvine, California
Alex’s work at UCI’s Basic Needs Center includes developing an inventory tracking system for the FRESH pantry/Mobile Food Pantry Services and broadening the partnership of local partners and vendors. Additionally, his goal is to build a nutrition education program, which includes recipes and usage tips for pantry food items, creating a cost-effective plan for pantry items.