Imani is a Public Health major with a minor in Sociology who will graduate in December.

Title of your research project:

Childhood Sexual Abuse as a Social Determinants of Health 

Describe your project:

My project examines the effects of childhood sexual abuse on women's health over time, exploring both immediate and lasting impacts on their physical and mental health.

Who is your mentor(s) for your project? How did you find your mentor? Why did you choose them?

My mentor is Dr. Andrea Kalfoglou from the Public Health Department. I found my mentor through the PBHL 350 Public Health Ethics class, which Dr.  Kalfoglou taught. Throughout the semester, I had the opportunity to build a strong connection with her due to her expertise, approachability, and the insightful discussions we had during the course. I chose Dr. Kalfoglou because of her extensive knowledge and experience in public health. Additionally, her supportive and encouraging mentoring style made me feel confident that she would provide valuable guidance and feedback. Dr. Kalfoglou’s dedication to her students and her passion for public health inspired me to seek her mentorship for this project.

How did you become interested in this project?

I became interested in this project through my conversations with Dr. Kalfoglou about the various projects she was passionate about. During these discussions, I was particularly struck by her innovative ideas and the impactful potential of her proposed research topics. Her enthusiasm for addressing critical public health issues and her commitment inspired me to delve deeper into these areas. Dr. Kalfoglou’s vision and dedication motivated me to contribute to this important work, and I saw an opportunity to learn and grow under her guidance. As a result, I became deeply invested in pursuing this project, knowing it would be both intellectually stimulating and highly beneficial to the community.

What has been the hardest part about your research/what was the most unexpected thing about being a researcher? 

The hardest part about my research has been navigating the vast amount of existing literature and identifying the most relevant and credible sources to support my work. Sifting through conflicting information and differing viewpoints to find a clear direction has been particularly challenging.

The most unexpected aspect of being a researcher was the continuous journey of self-discovery intertwined with the pursuit of knowledge. I anticipated diving into the depths of my chosen field, but what I did not foresee was how each setback and breakthrough would shape not only my understanding of the subject matter but also my own capabilities and resilience. Research is not just about uncovering facts; it is a personal exploration of growth, where every obstacle becomes a stepping stone towards deeper insights and greater achievements.

What has been the most rewarding part?

Getting to work alongside Dr. Kalfoglou while strengthening our connection has been the most rewarding aspect of my research journey. Collaborating closely with someone whose expertise I deeply respect not only enhances the quality of my work but also provides invaluable mentorship and guidance. Our shared dedication to advancing public health has not only enriched my research experience but has also fostered a supportive and inspiring professional relationship that I truly value.

How will you disseminate your research?

I have already begun disseminating my research findings. On June 25th, 2024, I presented a poster of my findings at the 10th annual “Envision” conference sponsored by the Moore Center for the Prevention of Childhood Sexual Abuse at the Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health. The focus of the conference was approaching childhood sexual abuse as a public health problem with prevention as a primary strategy. Additionally, I will be presenting my research at URCAD on April 16th, 2025.

What is your advice to other students about getting involved in research?  

My advice to other students about getting involved in research is to approach it with an open mind and actively seek opportunities to build connections with your professors. Do not be afraid to reach out and express your interest in their research areas or inquire about potential projects where you could contribute. Building relationships with professors not only opens doors to research opportunities but also provides invaluable mentorship and guidance throughout your academic journey. Additionally, do not shy away from exploring different research topics. You never know where your passion and skills might lead you.

What are your career goals?

As a public health graduate with a focus on research and community health, my career goals are centered around leveraging evidence-based research to inform and implement health interventions that address disparities in underserved communities. I aspire to contribute to the development of public health policies and programs that promote equitable access to healthcare and improve overall population health outcomes.

Want to be featured as a Researcher of the Week?  Email: aprilh@umbc.edu