October 3, 2024

Maleah-Rose Eusebio is a master’s student in the MPH program at Drexel Dornsife School of Public Health (DSPH) within the Environmental and Occupational Health Department. Her journey at DSPH began in the accelerated 4+1 BS/MPH program where she narrowed her public health interests and completed a research assistantship and Inclusion, Diversity, Equity & Antiracism (IDEA) fellowship. In spring of 2024, she graduated Summa Cum Laude with her BS in Public Health and two minors in Medical Sociology and Science, Technology, and Society.

Eusebio moved to Philadelphia from Waipahu, Hawaii to pursue her studies. Although her roots were deeply planted in Hawaii, she craved the experience of living in a big city. When she discovered Drexel University, she was drawn to the rich history and vibrant culture of Philadelphia.

Moving far from home was a significant transition for Eusebio. She often found herself missing her loved ones and the familiarity of home therefore she incorporated public health issues in her home state into her education. “It is difficult to be away from my family and live in a completely different city,” she said. “I am passionate about applying my learnings to public health issues back home in Hawaii through my projects and assignments.”

For her capstone project senior year, Eusebio developed a Needs Assessment for Wildfire Preparedness in Hawaii following the Maui wildfires in 2023. It was one of the deadliest U.S. wildfires in over a century, claiming 102 lives and displacing an estimated 14,000 people. In the assessment she outlined first responder needs, current resources, and mitigation, prevention, and suppression protocol. To improve wildfire response, she noted a need for policy and increased funding to update antiquated equipment and provide increased fire trainings.

In another project for her Principles and Practice of Environmental and Occupational Health class, Eusebio presented about the environmental health implications of the Red Hill Facility jet fuel leak into community water systems in 2021. She presented about health concerns for surrounding communities and workers of the Red Hill Facility as well as community led environmental justice advocacy efforts.

Another impactful DSPH class for Eusebio was taking an injury prevention and control course led by Jennifer Taylor, PhD, Arthur L. and Joanne B. Frank professor and director of the Center for Firefighter Injury Research and Safety Trends (FIRST). The course introduced her to the concepts of injury prevention, and it opened her eyes to the possibility of a career focused on reducing injuries, particularly in workplace settings. It was a turning point for her, inspiring her to explore environmental and occupational health internships.

Eusebio landed a position at Merck as an Environmental Health & Safety Intern, working in industrial hygiene in summer of 2024. The experience gave her hands-on exposure to safety practices, including hazard assessments and air sampling for containment verification in the pharmaceutical industry. Merck was a great fit for her as they prioritized safety, which she felt aligned with DSPH’s curriculum and values.

“Having a value of health as a human right and emphasis and experience in community engagement was beneficial as I conducted qualitative risk assessments from a safety best practices lens,” said Eusebio.

This internship helped solidify Eusebio’s commitment to this path in public health. With the values of equity and health as a human right guiding her, she is eager to make an impact in the public health world upon graduation in June 2025.

Learn more about the Dornsife 4+1 BS/MPH program