My name is Alexandra Benitez-Gonzalez and my journey began on the beautiful island of Puerto Rico, known as the “Island of Enchantment.” Growing up, I was always drawn to science and the process of questioning and testing hypotheses. This led me to pursue a career in social science and risk communication research.

Initially on a pre-medical track at the University of Puerto Rico, I worked in hospitals and shadowed doctors to fulfill my family’s dream of me becoming a doctor. However, my time in hospitals sparked a passion for research and a desire to make a difference in my community. This led me to transfer to an environmental science program and conduct a social science study on pesticide exposure among agricultural workers in Puerto Rico.

Through this experience, I discovered the importance of communication in addressing social issues and found my passion for health and risk communication. This passion eventually led me to Michigan State University for a master’s degree where I focused on improving risk communication about harmful algal blooms in Great Lakes ecosystems.

I conducted fieldwork research to explore how communities near HAB events learn about the health effects and developed a project to evaluate how behavioral beliefs influence risk perception. I discovered a lack of trust in government agencies among community members and a reliance on friends and family for information.

Using this data, I created communication materials to educate the public about HABs and their effects. I believe that by effectively communicating risks, we can prevent health incidents and save lives. Title: Transforming Communities Through Science and Risk Communication

By actively listening to the needs and concerns of community members, understanding their unique perspectives, and making health and risk information more accessible and trustworthy, we have the power to make a real impact on the world.

I am committed to pursuing my Ph.D. in Science and Risk Communication, despite deviating from the traditional path of becoming a medical doctor. My ultimate goal is to become the “Dr. Benitez” of my own aspirations.

Research Citations:

– Wang, Y. T., Zhang, T. Q., Zhao, Y. C., Ciborowski, J. J. H., Zhao, Y. M., O’Halloran, I. P., … Tan, C. S. (2021). Characterization of sedimentary phosphorus in Lake Erie and on-site quantification of internal phosphorus loading. Water Research, 188, 116525. doi:10.1016/j.watres.2020.116525. [Abstract]
– Moore, S. K., Dreyer, S. J., Ekstrom, J. A., Moore, K., Norman, K., Klinger, T., Allison, E. H., & Jardine, S. L. (2020). Harmful algal blooms and coastal communities: Socioeconomic impacts and actions taken to cope with the 2015 U.S. West Coast domoic acid event. Harmful algae, 96, 101799. doi:10.1016/j.hal.2020.101799. [Abstract]
– Walker, H.W. (2014). Harmful algae blooms in drinking water: Removal of cyanobacterial cells and toxins (1st ed.). CRC Press. doi:10.1201/b17922. [Full Text]

Incorporating the focus keyword “Science and Risk Communication” throughout the article will help to emphasize the importance of this field and its potential impact on communities.

The journey towards transforming communities through effective communication and understanding begins with actively listening to the voices of community members. By engaging with individuals, we can gain valuable insights into their needs, concerns, and perspectives. This empathetic approach allows us to tailor our communication strategies to be more inclusive, relevant, and impactful.

Understanding the positionality of community members is crucial in effectively communicating health and risk information. By acknowledging and respecting the diverse backgrounds, experiences, and beliefs of individuals, we can build trust and credibility in our messages. This inclusive approach ensures that information is received and understood in a way that resonates with different audiences.

Making health and risk information more accessible and trustworthy is key to empowering communities to make informed decisions. By utilizing clear and concise language, visual aids, and interactive tools, we can effectively convey complex information in a way that is easily understood. Transparency, accuracy, and consistency in our messaging build credibility and foster trust among community members.

My pursuit of a Ph.D. in Science and Risk Communication is driven by a desire to bridge the gap between scientific knowledge and community understanding. While my path may have surprised my family, I am determined to become a trusted source of information and support for those in need. Just as “Dr. Benitez” embodies my personal aspirations, I aim to inspire and empower others to advocate for their health and well-being.

In conclusion, the power of effective science and risk communication lies in its ability to transform communities, empower individuals, and drive positive change. By listening, understanding, and communicating with empathy and integrity, we can truly make a difference in the world. Let us continue to engage with communities, build trust, and empower individuals to take control of their health and well-being. Together, we can create a healthier, more informed society for all.