Student Spotlight: Holly Hughes Garza, PhD, Epidemiology

Holly Hughes Garza,  PhD Epidemiology student, UT Health School of Public Health, Austin, TX,  Research Scientist, Dell Children’s Trauma and Injury Research Center

What are your injury and violence prevention research interests?

In addition to being a student, I work full-time in a pediatric level I trauma center. My research mostly centers around epidemiology and prevention of unintentional injuries and child abuse and improving clinical trauma care. I’m also really interested in assessing and improving the available data sources in injury research.

What is something you enjoy about participating in a SAVIR committee as a student?

I have enjoyed the SAVIR Policy and Advocacy Committee because the people are so great! Advocacy is an important area of public health where I don’t have a lot of experience. I’ve met wonderful, supportive colleagues, and we’ve put together some great webinars and conference presentations.

What motivates you every day?

My office is directly inside the hospital, so every time I walk through the building, I see patients and families that remind me why our work is so important. I’m also really motivated by my wonderful team – interacting with other talented researchers and clinical staff keeps me energized to do the work.

What do you like to do in your free time?

I like to spend time with my family, watch my two sons play sports, try new restaurants, hang out with my little dog (Oscar), play tennis, and if I have any time left, I enjoy crafts like crochet and weaving. I love to travel also!