Julia Istefanos is a junior biochemistry major at Barnard College with a keen interest in the intersection of public health and social justice. Growing up in Cairo, Julia witnessed healthcare limitations influenced by socioeconomic status and gender, fueling her passion for social impact work. After immigrating to the United States, she continued her civic engagement and aims to address health disparities, especially in the Middle East and North Africa (MENA) region.

Julia participated in the Columbia Science Matters Research Internship, studying immune response in relation to environmental stimuli. She aspires to travel to the MENA region to start a humanitarian aid program focused on providing quality healthcare and medical resources to underserved communities. Julia plans to pursue a master’s degree in public health with a focus on epidemiology.

She believes the Social Impact Fellowship will equip her with essential tools and mentorship to achieve her goals, connect with like-minded individuals, and foster international social change.