Jocelyn Rajkowski

• SOAR Position: Secretary; Alumni
• Major: Community and Public Health
• Faculty Mentor(s): Dr. Kahler W. Stone

Current Focus: Where do Refugees and Asylum Seekers Land in the United States: A Review of Worldwide Refugee Admissions Processing System (WRAPS) Data and State Laws

Additional Interests: Medicine, pathophysiology/pathology, infectious disease

Project Description

We are scoping the current literature to ascertain which states are more receptive to refugees and asylum seekers and determining their health outcomes after some time in the United States. This research will identify gaps in refugee healthcare.

Why does this topic interest you?

I saw a video in a bioethics class on refugees. I was moved emotionally when I watched families be torn apart by gunfire and worse – all because of their religion, culture, gender or social class.

What are your professional aspirations?

I am on track to graduate with my bachelor’s degree in Community and Public Health in December 2022. I am on an accelerated pathway to a master’s degree in Public Health, during which I will apply for Ph.D. programs in Epidemiology.

Do you have any advice for future researchers?

Don’t be afraid to be the “new kid” in research. Trust your mentor and ask any questions you can, regardless of what you think of the question.

Return to Listing