Student Spotlight: Nicole Asa, MPH PhD Candidate, Department of Epidemiology University of Washington School of Public Health

picture of student member Nicole Asa

What are your injury and violence prevention research interests?

My injury and violence prevention research centers on reducing firearm-related injuries and deaths. I am particularly interested in the effects of policy on firearm deaths. Additionally, I am interested in exploring how the built environment can contribute to safer communities. I am currently working on my dissertation which is focused on Extreme Risk Protection Orders and their intersection with the criminal legal system. I hope the findings from my dissertation will help to further understand the effectiveness of Extreme Risk Protection Orders.

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

I am currently a member of both the Students and Early Career Professionals (SECP) committee and the Advocacy and Policy Committee. The SECP committee creates a welcoming atmosphere, and I have connected with many wonderful students and early career professions through this committee whom I hope to learn from and work with in the future. I have also really valued my time participating in the Advocacy and Policy Committee. I have had the opportunity to learn from others in the field about their experiences doing advocacy and policy work, which I have applied to my own work. Additionally, the Advocacy and Policy Committee does a technical workshop at the conference every year, so it is a great experience to be able to participate in that and share our work to the SAVIR community.

What motivates you every day?

The persistent occurrence of firearm violence drives me to work towards meaningful change. I am passionate about finding solutions to make our communities safer, saving lives, and reducing suffering across our population. I hope to live in a future where firearm deaths and violent deaths are rare and not a daily headline.

What do you like to do in your free time?

In my free time I like to read, bake, and try new restaurants around Seattle.