Yazmine, I’ve never even heard of her!
Hola amigos! Mi nombre es Yazmine Miles, I’m a Sports Medicine and Exercise Physiology major at Rice University, with a minor in Global Health Technologies. I am from McMurtry College, where I currently serve as one of the 2025 O-Week Coordinators, External Vice President, and Junior Class Representative. Outside of the classroom, I’m a communications intern for the Rice360 Institute for Global Health at the BRC (love everyone who works there so much!), so I’m especially passionate about storytelling and amplifying global health work. I’m originally from Yuma, Arizona, a border town where Mexican and American cultures intersect daily. Essentially, I grew up eating the best food lol! Because of that, Mexico isn’t unfamiliar to me, but I’ve been looking forward to immersing myself in the richness of Mexico City and San Cristóbal’s environment and culture for months.
Me and my favs (Murt’s O-Week in action! Love them DOWN!!! #cacaya #LLC)
Me when I’m back in my natural habitat (Yuma, Arizona). I love my little border town!
This past February, I traveled to Cuauhtemoc. Fell in love with the city! It reminded me so much of my hometown 🙂
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I’m in my academic weapon era! (hopefully lol)
One of my biggest academic goals at Rice is to gain a global perspective on health systems, technologies, and people’s everyday lives worldwide. I believe that the best innovation happens when you understand people’s needs from their point of view. Through iSEED, I hope to challenge myself to think more creatively and compassionately, especially when designing sustainable, practical solutions for water access and public health.
Me presenting my research at the end of the GLHT360 course my Freshman Spring. Lots of time and dedication, but I am so happy with the work that my team presented!
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Okay Yaz, but what’s happening next?!
Over the next four weeks, I’m excited to dive into the science of water systems in two unique settings: the sprawling metropolis of Mexico City and the mountainous, colorful town of San Cristóbal. Beyond the academics, I’m incredibly thankful for the group of peers I’ve experienced this with. Even before the program officially began, we had already been laughing together, exploring local stores and restaurants, and building a connection that makes learning more meaningful.
I can’t wait to see what challenges and inspiration lie ahead, both in and out of the classroom. Here’s to the adventure, teamwork, and growth of stepping into something new. ¡Vámonos!
(check out the pictures below! can you believe this is just day 1?!?!)
On our way to a cafe for lunch, we passed this beautiful Catholic Church!
On our way to dinner, I stopped and snapped a cute picture of the night life. Loving it already!
Wonderful, Yaz!
Thank you, Yazmine! Looking forward to discussing the intersection of global health and water throughout the trip.