Andre Rei Weeks, MPH

With an undergraduate degree in biology and a deep interest in math, Andre Rei Weeks wanted to combine these pursuits in one program for his graduate study. He decided on a Master of Public Health degree with a concentration in biostatistics.

“During the summer of 2012, I was choosing between UB and the University of the Sciences in Philadelphia,” he explained. “Then I visited UB, and it was clear to me which school I should attend.”

During that trip, Weeks met with Lili Tian, PhD, director of graduate studies in the Department of Biostatistics, and Dennis Bertram, PhD, then MPH program coordinator. “They both gave me more information about the program and the opportunities that I would have afterward. After talking to them and walking around the campus, I was sold. I knew then that I would be attending.”

Now a graduate of the program, Weeks was impressed with his experiences.

“The program uses statistical analysis to identify the causes of diseases and injuries and through that, helps find out what works best in solving health problems,” he said.

“When I first arrived, I was hoping to gain knowledge of the major success factors which influence local, national and global governments, as well as the social and economic policies that ultimately impact health on a world-wide basis. This program went above and beyond my expectations,” he said.

“I also enjoyed the vastness of the backgrounds of the students here. It shows that no matter whether your background was in math, science, psychology, etc., you can make an impact on the global health initiative.”