Makayla Morales, MPH

MPH, Community and Behavioral Health
Biography

I am an experienced researcher with a special interest in promoting health equity among marginalized populations. I am a natural leader who excels in facilitating discussions. My experiences and identities provide me with a rich, unique perspective that elevates the work I contribute to. I am eager to continue working as a qualitative researcher after I complete my MPH program in May 2024.

I first joined the team in December 2019 as an undergraduate researcher. Since then, I have been able to flourish in the field of qualitative research thanks to the ample opportunities the WRG has given me. For example, I am the lead author of a manuscript we published that investigated Puff Bar content on TikTok. This is an impressive feat because I was an undergraduate student at the time of publication.

Personal Goals and Interests:

• Work as a health equity specialist, ideally in the non-profit sector

• I play rugby collegiately and will continue to be on a rugby team post-graduation

Research areas
  • Health equity
  • Latinx health
  • Social and environmental determinants of health
  • Intersectional approaches to research
  • Social justice
  • LGBTQ+ Health
makayla headshot
Education
BA Public Health, Spanish Minor, University of Iowa
MPH in Community and Behavioral Health, University of Iowa (IP)