Camilla Bustamante, PhD Master of Public Health (MPH)

Dean (retired)

Running for public office 

Pronouns Her/She/Ella

Tell us what experiences influenced you to pursue a STEM career?

Like many people, I want to better understand the influences our environment and the products we use affect our health. These conversations are in the news every day and when my father passed away in 1996 after working at a weapons lab where I knew he had worked around radiation and harsh chemicals, I took the opportunity to pursue my education in environmental epidemiology.

Tell us about your college experiences (triumphs, and challenges)?

My first experience that really challenged me and whether or not I felt that I belonged in college was when the first roommate I was assigned thought I had left the room and told her sister that she was not emptying her boxes because her roommate was Mexican. That experience strengthened me for years! Also, it took time for me to learn that math is a tool worth using and that it helps us understand many things if we take the time to work through the problems. I was not quick at math, but throughout my college career I knew that to conquer the use of math to get the answers I need to better understand what I want to learn. I ultimately graduated with a background in epidemiology, which is largely bio-statistics, with Distinction. It is always about taking one’s time to regroup and keep at it.

What’s one STEM project that you worked on that you were passionate about?

My most favorite STEM project that I worked on was with HAZMAT Science Applications. With some friends from LANL we measured stimulant analytes (mock contaminants) to evaluate how they progress in the environment and on protective gear. This required the understanding of the behavior and make up of chemical compounds and the best way to control where they end-up in an emergency response situation. We tested hospital and military protective clothing and the procedures for donning and doffing gear and clothing.

What does self-care look like to you?  Is it free time, hobbies, and/or interests?

Self-care for me is about taking care of my home and farm. I love the natural environment, goats and chickens. I grow my own food as much as possible and take the pace of nature. I find peace and security in the outdoors.

What is one piece of practical advice you would give to a middle school student wanting to pursue a STEM Career?

The most practical advice to a middle school student is to know that the STEM fields are key to understanding how our world works. The STEM fields provide the tools we need to better understand how we live on our planet and how to improve quality of life for all.