This May, Hannah Altberger became the first ever graduate of a social data science major on the public health track.
“Getting to pioneer the major was so cool,” Altberger said. “I just happened to be the first one to graduate with this degree, and I think that is such an honor.”
Through this unique major, Altberger learned how to work with data in a public health context. She was drawn towards the interdisciplinary degree because it allowed her to connect numbers and data with social sciences.
The degree helped teach her a multifaceted approach to public health.
On campus, Altberger was a SustainableUMD Ambassador through the UMD Office of Sustainability, where she helped educate students and promote campus sustainability. She also served as the director of finance of Epsilon Eta, a professional fraternity focused on environmental science and sustainability.
She describes her most memorable moments in the School of Public Health as the mentorship she received from her lab advisors.
“Hannah has been an important part of my lab for the past four years, and she has consistently stood out for her dedication, resilience, and passion for research,” said Jessica O’Hara, an SPH clinical assistant professor. “It was truly rewarding to see her become more confident in laboratory techniques, experimental design and science communication.
My goal is to make a difference and help in any way I can, no matter how small.
Over the summer, Altberger is working in a lab with Dr. Leena Malayil, a Global, Environmental, and Occupational Health assistant research professor. Altberger hopes the research will lead to a publication with Malayil.
“Hannah is a fast learner with a solid work ethic,” Malayil said.
Altberger’s long-term goals include working in water quality research, which she is passionate about because of its impact.
“My goal is to make a difference and help in any way I can, no matter how small,” Altberger said.