NYU GPH 2021 Graduation - Student Speakers

Graduate Student Speaker
Akshitha Dondapati (she/her/hers) | Akshitha Dondapati received her bachelor's in Anthropology and Public Health from NYU in 2019. During her time as an undergraduate, she pursued clinical research to better understand socioeconomic determinants of health as they relate to homelessness and emergency room utilization. This, in addition to her experience as an EMT, exposed her to the direct impact that access to healthcare could have on vulnerable populations. Frustrated by the current system, Akshitha pursued an MPH with the hopes of gaining the tools to one day develop sustainable and cost-effective policies that will ensure equitable access to healthcare for all. At NYU GPH, Akshitha served on the Student Governing Council for four years in various roles including the Financial Officer and Senator. Akshitha was also a Student Orientation Leader and Women in Science Mentor during her bachelor's and master's. Her claim to fame is having an NYU quidditch trading card created after her!

Undergraduate Student Speaker
Marissa Singer Rosenberg | Marissa Singer Rosenberg was born and raised in Miami, FL. She is graduating from NYU this year with a Bachelor’s Degree in Global Public Health (GPH) and History. She has worked as a Health Educator with Peer Health Exchange, conducted clinical research at Mount Sinai Hospital, served as a Resident Assistant, a CAS Cohort President, and a GPH Undergraduate Ambassador. This Summer, Marissa will intern with GHESKIO, conducting research on the healthcare delivery in Haitian clinics. She will also serve on the board of Once a Month Miami, an organization that provides sanitary products to homeless women.
In the Fall, Marissa will attend a Post Baccalaureate Pre-med Program at the University of Miami. She wishes to obtain a MD/MPH degree and to pursue a career in pediatric and fetal medicine. While practicing as a physician, she also hopes to devote her career to creating public health interventions that ensure health equity and access. Marissa is honored to be the undergraduate student speaker at the 2021 GPH Virtual Graduation Ceremony, and is grateful for the continued support of her family, friends, professors, and mentors.