Major: Gender, Sexuality, and Women's Studies

• Internship: Men's Health Network and University of California Student Association
• LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kayla-ware-8bb13a241/
• Current Position: UC Davis GSW Peer Advisor

 Tell us about your internship – what kind of work did you do? What did you find rewarding?

I had the opportunity to intern for two organizations this quarter: the Men's Health Network (MHN) and the University of California Student Association (UCSA). It was occasionally difficult to balance two internships and attend a class. However, I came out on top, for which I am eternally grateful. The most fulfilling aspect of my jobs was being able to foster community among my coworkers and the various organizations with which we collaborated. At MHN, I conducted independent research on the health of underrepresented men and tried to get some healthcare reforms passed. While working for UCSA, I concentrated on higher education and President Biden's student loan forgiveness program.

Have your career or life goals changed as a result of your internship? If so, how? 

I wouldn't say my professional ambitions have altered, but after working with the Men's Health Network (MHN), I've become interested in looking at health disparities from a broader perspective. Prior to starting at MHN, I was mostly concerned with finding an internship that was related to my major. That was not the case, however, ended up being the best opportunity and experience I'd ever had! I discovered that if we want to live healthy lives, we must work together and leave our prejudices at the door.

Share an exciting memory from your internship – something unexpected, an accomplishment, someone you met. 

I had the privilege of witnessing Dr. Anthony Fauci at a networking event. Unfortunately, I was unable to meet him in person, but it still meant a lot to me! As a student interested in public health, I found the event incredibly motivating and encouraging.

Did your internship lead to any opportunities?

Being able to do my own independent study on health disparities among men of color was made possible by the Men's Health Network. The study focused on how certain masculinity biases and stereotypes impacts how often men decide to get health checkups. In addition, I conducted interviews at the Capitol building for the Men's Health Network's social media platforms, which was also an incredible opportunity.

Share a story about something special you did in Washington – an event you attended, a place you went, an exciting talk, etc. 

When I was a junior in high school, my history teacher took my classmates and I on a tour of the New England states. Unfortunately, during the trip, the federal government shut down, and we were not able to visit all of the places we had originally planned. Due to the government shutdown, I was unable to attend Ford's Theatre while we were in Washington, D.C. However, I made it a priority to attend the theater during my time in UCDC the program. Mission complete!

How has living in the nation's capital for a quarter changed you?

I told myself that I would not enjoy living in the city when I initially arrived in Washington, DC. Throughout my entire life, I have lived in suburban settings. The city life, on the other hand, has begun to appeal to me more and more. I can picture myself settling down there at some point in the not-too-distant future. I want future students to consider going into new situations with an open mind and a positive attitude because you never know how things might turn out!

Do you have any advice for future UCDC students?

To any prospective students of UCDC, I would say, "Do not miss this opportunity." Due to my major, I ignored the program's email promotions before submitting an application. I genuinely believed a political science major was required to participate. However, this was not the case, and I am extremely grateful for this opportunity. Take advantage of every opportunity offered in the program because you never know who you will meet.