The peer educator of Titanhealth and a senior graduate M Smith offers an ear to listen to educate the Comrades de class Fullerton in the state of CAL on the importance of health and well-being.
Smith participates in Titanhealth Hut Mobile Outreach Program, which gives students a safe and welcoming environment.
The program offers peer education to promote healthy choices and behaviors, focusing on health subjects related to nutrition, food insecurity, safe sex and sexual violence.
Smith, a Major of Public Health The study of global health, engages with hundreds of students each week, allowing them to make informed decisions on their health by sharing information and resources on the campus.
“M has demonstrated the initiative, passion and an unwavering commitment to collective health and well-being,” said Lynnette de Los Angeles, Titanhealth health educator.
In recognition of Smith’s excellence in the service, the class of the 2025 class is the recipient of the Association des Anciens Exceptional senior price.
“This recognition makes me feel and heard for the work I do and that I did, not only to improve myself, but my community and people around me,” said Smith. “I am able to reach students and help establish relationships and a healthy community.”
Smith joined Titanhealth to prepare for a career in public health. After graduating in May, they plan to continue a master’s degree in public health at the CSUS in the fall. Smith is the first in their family – the eldest of seven brothers and sisters – to obtain a university diploma.
They aspire to continue a doctoral/MD program to seek public health problems, such as the effects of climate change on reproductive care and maternal health.
“Working as an educator peer gives me the tools I need to work on my future,” said Smith.
As an educator, Smith likes to meet other students and relay campus resources. These resources include medical care and mental health services and healthy foods available at The Pantry, an Associated Students Inc. program for those facing food insecurity.
This spring semester, Smith is an intern of Titanhealth Community Commitment Services, focusing on research and support for programs.
Since his secondary school diploma 10 years ago, Smith has started and has left college several times. During the pandemic, Smith worked as certified Doula. This experience inspired Smith to continue his college studies and to endeavor to have a career in public health to ensure access to quality and preventive care.
In June 2023, Smith obtained a diploma in public health partner of the Santa Ana College and transferred to the CSUS the following fall.
“I am proud of myself to stick to a degree and a career path that benefits many people,” shared Smith, a community volunteer in local food banks and Elevate, a mentorship for young people in Los Angeles.
At the CSUF, Smith found a place where they could prosper.
“Since I left high school, I came to me with my quirk and be trans / non -binary,” said Smith. “On this campus, it was easy to be my authentic self, and I developed a community with others that has improved my well-being.”
During Smith’s undergraduate studies, they participated in a research project focused on health insurance and access to health care among CSUS students, led by Shana Charles, Associate Professor of Public Health. They also sat on the Education Advisory Committee to create an inclusive study program for medical students on reproductive justice and LGBTQ +health.
Smith is delighted with higher education and a career pleading for the well-being of others.
“If I can improve the lives of a few people, it will be worth it.”