International Spotlight

Get to Know H&K 2020 Grad Linet Juma

JumaFrom humble beginnings, Linet Juma grew up in Kisumu, Kenya, with a large, close-knit and supportive family. She arrived in the Lone Star State to gain a quality education – and she found all that and more at The University of Texas at Tyler. 

The December 2020 graduate found dedicated and understanding faculty within the health and kinesiology department, noting the University is also dedicated to student success and treats students like family. 

“The faculty are always available to help, and they will walk with you every single step to help you achieve your goals,” said Juma, who graduated with a master’s degree in health sciences. “My professors were so understanding, and I loved working with them.”

While at UT Tyler, Juma worked as a graduate teaching assistant and conducted independent studies on aging with UT Tyler professor Dr. Cheryl Cooper. Juma said the knowledge and soft skills she acquired through these experiences will help her achieve her ultimate career goal – to make her native country a better, healthier place. 

“UT Tyler prepared me for a successful career by helping me acquire the latest knowledge and necessary skills that I will need to help others and my community,” she said. “Coming from a small community in Africa without enough health resources, I’d like to one day work with the World Health Organization and Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.”

Juma encourages UT Tyler students to never give up through hardships, referencing a quote from renowned pastor Joel Osteen: “Make up your mind that no matter what comes your way, no matter how difficult, no matter how unfair, you will do more than simply survive. You will thrive in spite of it.”

During her free time, Juma enjoys traveling, cheering on her Dallas Cowboys, listening to music and cooking. 

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Read more from the February 2021 issue!

Lending a Helping Hand: UT Tyler Aids With COVID Vaccine Clinics

Get to Know SON Interim Executive Director Dr. Jenifer Chilton