What motivates you about public health?

The United States is one of the most industrialized nations in the world but there still exist considerable health disparities. As a future health informatician I could play a role in minimizing these disparities to improve health outcomes within disadvantaged populations.

What drew you to health informatics and health information management?

The crucial role of health information management in promoting better health outcomes is as relevant as ever. The impact of well-prepared health informatics and health information management professionals, like the one I hope to be, in this endeavor cannot be overemphasized.

What were you doing in Ethiopia before moving to Seattle?

I was working as a primary health care physician at Debark Health Center in northern Ethiopia. Later, I served as head of the Teda Regional Training Center.

Why did you choose the UW School of Public Health?

The School of Public Health at the UW is one of the best in the nation.

What are your future goals?

I hope to develop and oversee health information systems within a health care institution to achieve better health outcomes for patients.

What do you like most about Seattle?

The diversity of the city. Diversity of culture, ethnicity and language are the three things that interested me the most. Also, I enjoy walking and hiking in the summer.