Mariah Mendez is an MPH candidate at Columbia University’s Mailman School of Public Health, specializing in Health Policy Management with a certificate in Health and Human Rights. With a background in English and Philosophy from Fordham University, where she graduated summa cum laude, Mariah blends a strong liberal arts education with her passion for health policy and ethics.

Mariah’s previous roles include an Administrative Internship at Montefiore Health Systems’ Einstein Center for Bioethics, where she conducted literature reviews, participated in bioethical consultations, and co-authored research on ethics in healthcare. She also has experience in education as a Standardized Test Tutor at Kweller Prep, developing and teaching curriculum for a diverse student body.

At the Better Way Foundation, Mariah aims to apply her skills in data management, policy analysis, and advocacy to contribute to projects that enhance community health and well-being. Fluent in Spanish and proficient in French, she brings a multicultural perspective and a commitment to promoting human rights within healthcare. Mariah is excited to leverage her analytical skills and passion for health equity to make a meaningful impact this summer.