Member Insight – Estela Blanco

Estela Blanco, PhD, MPH, MA

1-line introduction:
I am an environmental epidemiologist originally from California, who lives and works in Santiago, Chile.

What sparked your decision to become an epidemiologist?
I had no idea what epidemiology was until I met an epidemiologist—a wonderful mentor, María Luisa Zúñiga. I studied Latin American Studies as an undergraduate and the stars aligned when San Diego State University started a new joint master’s program in Latin American Studies and Public Health. I was hooked!

What big epidemiology issue have you been thinking about lately?
I am constantly thinking about consequential epidemiology. I try to reflect on whether I am asking the most important question.

Do you have any pets?
Yes! We have a pug, Rosie. She is a good dog, but will eat absolutely anything left on the floor: food crumbs, bits of plastic, and paper—she loves paper.

Why did you join SER? What keeps you coming back?
I joined to be part of a larger epidemiology community and it has not disappointed. SER provides so much interesting content year-round. The variety continues to surprise me as well. Just the other week, I attend a session on capitalism and health that was very thought provoking.

What advice do you give students who want to become epidemiologists?
Join us! We have room for all. Here in Chile many people in public health and epidemiology come from the medical professions (mostly medical doctors). I like the opportunity to explain that a person from any educational background can be an epidemiologist.

Outside of epidemiology what do you enjoy doing?
I’m a big reader. Some good books I’ve read lately are: Demon Copperhead, The House in the Cerulean Sea, and Cloud Cuckoo Land.

Any hidden talents?
I am a master sandwich maker.