Brenda Bustillos

What inspired you to study to public health?

The profound nutrition related health crises and disparities in the United States and around the world inspired me to study public health.

What has been the single most rewarding experience of your career/studies so far?

I have been blessed with many rewarding experiences, but the ultimate reward is knowing that an intervention or educational program has greatly benefitted from my contributions. No successful publication, reward, accolade, or professional nod can trump the feeling of helping others.

What do you think is the biggest challenge that the public health field should be focusing on?

This question is difficult to answer, but I would paint with a wide brush by answering with the following: improving access to mental health professionals; HIV/AIDS research; cancer prevention efforts; access to safe and affordable healthcare for all; improved nutrition by addressing food access and affordability; and finally tackling food insecurity, hunger, and persistent poverty.