Miller School of Medicine Online M.P.H. Student’s Research Gains National Recognition
Medical and research assistant Julieta Benitez chose the University of Miami Miller School of Medicine’s Online M.P.H. program to take the next step in her public health journey.
As a medical and research assistant at Nicklaus Children’s Hospital, Julieta Benitez already had a clear passion for clinical work. But she also felt called to approach health challenges on a wider scale through a research-focused, public health framework.
She enrolled in the University of Miami Miller School of Medicine’s Online Master of Public Health (M.P.H.) program, which enables her to advance academically while retaining her role in clinical care. Recently, as part of the program, she undertook a gastroenterology research project that was accepted for presentation at a major national conference.
We spoke with Benitez about her journey into public health, her independent study and how the flexibility of the Online M.P.H. program is shaping her into a future clinician-scientist.
Tell us about your journey into medicine and public health. What drew you to this field?
I studied public health during my undergraduate years at Florida State University. At first, I thought the only way into medicine was the traditional pre-med track. But once I became involved in public health organizations and research, I realized how much I loved looking at health issues from a population perspective, not just through individual patient encounters.
After graduating, I worked in cardiology and then transitioned into pediatric gastroenterology at Nicklaus Children’s Hospital. That’s where I became deeply involved in research, especially under the mentorship of Dr. Lina Felipez, who leads our research efforts. Seeing how she balances clinical care with impactful research inspired me to pursue my M.P.H.
Why was the online program the right fit for you?
It’s exactly what I needed. The flexibility allows me to work full-time, attend classes on my schedule and still grow academically and professionally. I never imagined how quickly opportunities would open up because of it.
Your independent study ultimately turned into a full research project that gained national attention. How did that happen?
Originally, I planned to write a paper on inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) in Miami, especially in the pediatric population I work with every day. But once I started reviewing our clinic’s data with my mentors, we realized there was potential for a full-scale research study. We collected data from intestinal ultrasounds for IBD monitoring and the numbers were strong. We had over 500 participants. The results showed that intestinal ultrasound is truly impactful in IBD management.
We wrote an abstract, submitted it to the North American Society for Pediatric Gastroenterology, Hepatology and Nutrition (NASPGHAN) and it was accepted. I traveled to Chicago to present as first author.
This was a huge moment for me. Our poster was even recognized at the conference because of the quality and scale of the study.
What did it feel like presenting at a national pediatric GI conference as an M.P.H. student?
Honestly, I was nervous at first. I knew I’d be surrounded by physicians, fellows and specialists. But once I started presenting, I realized I could answer every question because I had been part of every step. We collected data in real time, I’m present for all the ultrasounds and I’m applying what I’m learning in my M.P.H. courses every day.
It was surreal. And it made me realize how valuable the M.P.H. has been. I’m taking biostatistics right now and, even before finishing the course, I’m already helping fellows understand their statistical output. That’s the power of having clinical experience and public health training happening at the same time.
How has the online M.P.H. program helped you balance school, work and research?
The flexibility is everything. If I need to log in at late at night after work, I can. And our cohort is so diverse—physicians joining from their offices after clinic, parents fitting classes around child care, students at different stages of their careers. It proves that if you want to pursue public health, there’s a way to make it work.
A master’s degree can feel daunting, but the online M.P.H. at UM makes it genuinely feasible. It opens doors you don’t even expect.
Julieta Benitez
And the faculty truly understand that many of us are working professionals. Dr. Elahe Nezami, in particular, is incredibly supportive and accessible.
What did you learn from completing your independent study?
It helped me understand what kind of researcher I want to be. The M.P.H. program is intentionally broad, unlike programs with strict concentrations. The independent study lets you take what you’ve learned and test it out in real life.
For me, that meant realizing I want to focus on clinical research and clinical epidemiology. I love seeing how data translates directly into improved patient care. And now, as I move into my capstone, I feel much more confident and prepared.
Where do you see your career going next?
I’m at a crossroads between medical school and pursuing a Ph.D. Both pathways appeal to me. What I know for sure is that I want to continue doing research that directly impacts patients. That blend of clinical work and research is what excites me.
What advice would you give someone considering the online M.P.H. program?
A master’s degree can feel daunting, but the online M.P.H. at UM makes it genuinely feasible. It opens doors you don’t even expect.
Tags: Department of Medical Education, Dr. Elahe Nezami, gastroenterology, M.P.H., medical education, online M.P.H.