Background

I’m Cestihny and I am a Biomedical Sciences student at Old Dominion University, and my ultimate career goal is to improve maternal and infant health outcomes. I’ll be completing my bachelor’s degree in Spring 2026, after which I plan to earn a Ph.D in medical sociology. My passion for research and the desire to understand society and public policy has always been a great part of who I am. I’ve had the opportunity to work with Dr. Denise McKinney on maternal dental research since Fall 2024. For me, science has always been fascinating, not only for satisfying the thrill of exploration but also for contributing to the wellbeing of all life on Earth.