Student Spotlight: Ky Martin- Combining public health passion with real-world experience
by Jessica Degnan |
Ky R. Martin, a bachelor of science in health sciences student, is passionate about empowering the community through HIV prevention, education and inclusive public health outreach. 鈥淚ronically, my dream job is exactly what I do now,鈥� he says, reflecting on his work as the HIV prevention coordinator for the Municipality of Anchorage. Through his studies in the Division of Population Health Sciences, Ky is expanding his skills and deepening his impact on local public health efforts. His secret to success? Stay organized, set goals鈥攁nd don鈥檛 forget to take your dog for a walk.
Name: Ky R Martin
Major: Health Sciences and Health Educator Track
Anticipated graduation date: Summer 2026
Unit: Division of Population Health Sciences
Hometown: Anchorage
What brought you to the UAA College of Health?:
I have lived in 木瓜直播 for over 28 years, and my connection to UAA goes back to when my mother graduated from the university when I was seven. The first time I attended UAA, I pursued an associate degree in Emergency Services and Fire Science. As I gained more experience working in public health, I realized that the Health Track was the perfect fit for what I wanted to go back for. The College of Health offers the programs that align with my goals, allowing me to build on my background in emergency services while expanding my knowledge in public health.
Why did you choose the degree you are pursuing? What would your dream job be?:
I chose this degree because it directly aligns with my work as the HIV Prevention Coordinator for the Municipality of Anchorage Health Department. Ironically, my dream job is exactly what I do now鈥攑roviding education on HIV and STI prevention, sharing data on national and local infection rates, and ensuring community members have access to testing, treatment, and resources to maintain their sexual health. I鈥檓 passionate about empowering individuals with knowledge and services to reduce risks and promote overall well-being in our community.
What are you involved in on campus? How have they contributed to your personal and professional growth?:
I actively participate in UAA鈥檚 Health Promotion Team events by tabling whenever opportunities arise. Engaging with students in this capacity has allowed me to share important health resources, promote wellness initiatives, and connect with peers who are equally passionate about public health. This involvement has not only strengthened my communication and outreach skills but has also reinforced my commitment to community health education, which directly supports my professional growth as an HIV Prevention Coordinator.
Have you been involved with internships, practicum placements, research, study abroad, or any other experience you鈥檇 like to tell us about? Please tell us how these experiences have shaped you personally, academically, and professionally.:
Yes! My current role as the HIV Prevention Coordinator for the Municipality of Anchorage Health Department has provided me with invaluable hands-on experience that aligns with my academic and professional goals. While not a traditional internship or practicum, this role has allowed me to apply the knowledge gained in my Health Sciences coursework directly to real-world public health initiatives.
Through my work, I鈥檝e had the opportunity to conduct community outreach, provide education on HIV and STI prevention, and facilitate testing and treatment services. These experiences have strengthened my ability to engage diverse populations, communicate complex health information effectively, and develop public health strategies.
Academically, this role has reinforced my passion for public health and health education, pushing me to deepen my understanding of disease prevention and community wellness. Personally, it has been incredibly rewarding to make a tangible impact in the lives of those I serve, further motivating me to continue advocating for accessible and equitable healthcare.
What words of wisdom do you have for underclassmen or youth who are still considering their options after high school?:
For those still considering their options after high school, my advice would be to stay open-minded and explore what truly resonates with you. Don鈥檛 be afraid to change direction if something doesn鈥檛 feel right. Discovering your passion is a journey that evolves over time. Focus on finding something that aligns with your values and interests, and remember that your path may not be linear, but that鈥檚 okay.
Take advantage of opportunities to network, volunteer, and gain hands-on experience early on. Whether it's through internships, part-time jobs, or community projects, these experiences will shape your understanding of the field and help you develop important skills. And most importantly, trust in your ability to make an impact.
What did you want to do when you were 10? Why?:
When I was 10, I wanted to be a veterinarian. I鈥檝e always had a deep love for animals and admired how veterinarians helped them stay healthy and cared for. Over time, my career path shifted, but the desire to help others never wavered. In fact, I鈥檝e spent the last 10 years as an EMT/Firefighter with various local volunteer fire departments, from Chugiak to Girdwood. This experience has reinforced my passion for making a tangible difference in people鈥檚 lives and helping those in need, whether it鈥檚 through emergency medical services or public health. It also taught me the value of compassion, problem-solving, and quick thinking. Skills that are just as vital in public health as they are in emergency response.
What was your favorite class while here at UAA, and why?:
My favorite class would have to be Rescue Practices with Manch Garhart. It鈥檚 a fully hands-on course that focuses on mastering techniques for backcountry rescue and Search and Rescue (SAR).
What is a cause you care about?:
A cause I deeply care about is LGBTQIA+ rights. I believe in the importance of creating a society where everyone, regardless of their gender identity or sexual orientation, feels respected, valued, and supported. Advocacy for equal rights and protections for LGBTQIA+ individuals is something I鈥檓 passionate about, and I strive to contribute to a more inclusive and understanding world.
What is your favorite spot on campus and why?:
My favorite spot on campus is the library. I love the peace and quiet it offers, making it the perfect place for focused studying or reflection. It鈥檚 always a calming environment where I can truly concentrate, which helps me stay productive and centered during busy times.
What is your favorite memory from your time here at UAA?:
My favorite memory from my time at UAA would have to be the moment I realized how much my academic and professional experiences had aligned. The ability to combine my coursework in Health Sciences with my role as the HIV Prevention Coordinator for the Municipality of Anchorage Health Department really solidified my commitment to public health. I鈥檝e had countless meaningful interactions with both professors and peers that have challenged and inspired me to pursue my passion. The sense of community at UAA and the opportunities to grow both personally and professionally have made this journey incredibly fulfilling.
What is your plan after graduation?:
After graduation, my plan is to continue with my current work in public health, specifically in HIV prevention. I鈥檓 passionate about the impact I鈥檝e been able to make in my community, and I look forward to expanding that work further. In the future, I鈥檓 also considering branching out to explore opportunities in Canada, where I could bring my experience and skills to new public health challenges.
What is your favorite quote? Why?:
"I have no favorite quote, because choosing just one would be unfair to the rest." 鈥擴nknown
What hobbies do you enjoy in your spare time?:
In my spare time, I enjoy playing hockey, which is a great way for me to stay active and unwind. I also love working on house projects, whether it鈥檚 something big or small, I find it really rewarding to improve my space. And, of course, I enjoy taking my dog Sam for walks. It鈥檚 a nice way to clear my head and spend quality time with her.
Tell us about an obstacle you overcame.:
I am extremely dyslexic, which made learning to read a significant challenge. I attended a specialized school that taught me strategies to work around my dyslexia, and I wasn鈥檛 able to read at my expected grade level until the end of third or beginning of fourth grade. I still struggle with it today, but I now have the tools to navigate those challenges and ease my way through.
What is your secret to college success?:
My secret to college success is staying organized and managing time effectively. With a busy schedule that includes work, studies, and personal commitments, it鈥檚 essential to prioritize tasks and set clear goals for each day. I also make sure to take breaks and find time for self-care, whether it鈥檚 through physical activities like hockey or relaxing with my dog.
What has been your happiest/proudest moment?:
Academically, my proudest moment would have to be my graduation in 2018. It was a significant milestone that represented all the hard work and perseverance I put into my education.
What was the best advice you were ever given by a professor, staff, or classmate while here at UAA?:
While I can鈥檛 think of a specific piece of advice, the support and encouragement I鈥檝e received from professors, staff, and classmates at UAA have been invaluable. Their guidance has helped me navigate challenges and stay motivated in my academic and professional journey.