Michael Abassian, MPH, is a graduate of UC Berkeley’s School of Public Health with a degree in epidemiology and biostatistics, and a degree in human biology from UCLA. As a Public Health Associate during his time with the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Michael conducted on the ground research and health impact assessments to influence health policy and improve population wellbeing. His passion for public health practice and research has developed his in tersest in the epidemiology of chronic disease, nutritional epidemiology, social epidemiology, and global health. He has participated in epidemiological research to identify and analyze health trends both in the United States and overseas and plans to pursue a career in clinical and epidemiologic research.