Returning to the classroom after more than 30 years, this outstanding student found her passion

Editor’s note: This story is part of a series of profiles of notable fall 2024 graduates.

After visits to India and an internship at a non-profit organization, Hedwig Ashok knows she can make an impact.

“During my recent visits to India, I witnessed firsthand the challenges communities face due to limited health resources,” Ashok said. “This experience deepened my desire to shift my focus toward a field where I could make a broader impact on well-being.” 

So she decided to enroll in the College of Health Solutions.

Starting at ASU in the fall of 2023 in the population health master’s program, Ashok’s academics have been impeccable, earning a 4.29 GPA during her time in the program.

While at ASU, Ashok also interned with Empowerment Systems which works with low-income and unhoused populations and provides material needs.

“My internship at a non-profit organization has allowed me to engage with underserved populations, guiding them in accessing the resources they need to stabilize their lives,” Ashok said. “Additionally, as a mother, I understand the importance of creating healthier communities for future generations.”

For all this selfless work, Ashok was named the College of Health Solutions Outstanding Graduate for the 2024 fall semester.

Ashok said she feels a sense of fulfillment when she helps underserved communities and that knowing the work she is doing aligns with her values and that it has a direct impact on people’s lives.

“Helping people reminds me of why I chose this path — to give back and create positive change,” Ashok said. “It deepens my empathy and emphasizes the power of collaborative efforts.”

Question: What was your “aha” moment when you realized you wanted to study the field you majored in?

Answer: The desire to work in health care has always been with me, but I did not take any serious steps toward it until last year. During a visit to India in 2019 and subsequent visits, I frequently heard people discussing their use of medications for diabetes and hypertension. It was this experience that made me realize the need for health care interventions, health promotion and education. It inspired me to pursue formal education to better equip myself for a career in health care, one that would allow me to make a meaningful impact on people’s lives.

Additionally, my son earned both his bachelor's and master's degrees at ASU. While he was working on his master’s, we often discussed how social determinants of health impact health disparities and contribute to health inequities among different populations. These factors led me to pursue a master's in population health at ASU.

Q: Why did you choose ASU?

A: I chose ASU for a couple of reasons. My son attended ASU and I was impressed by the opportunities he had for growth outside of the classroom. Additionally, ASU is close to home, which was important for me, as I wanted an in-person experience that would allow me to engage with the campus community and take advantage of the resources available.

Q: What’s something you learned while at ASU — in the classroom or otherwise — that surprised you or changed your perspective?

A: Coming from a 20-plus year career in IT, I had the mindset that data and evidence were predominantly linked to quantitative measures. However, the population health program at ASU expanded my perspective by emphasizing the importance of qualitative data in understanding health behaviors, experiences and systemic issues. I learned that stories and lived experiences are just as critical as numbers when addressing complex health challenges, and combining both approaches creates a comprehensive picture for driving meaningful change.

Q: Which professor taught you the most important lesson while at ASU?

A: I found support and guidance from all of them. Dr. Raminta Daniulaityte was instrumental in helping me understand the importance of qualitative research in addressing health-related problems. Her guidance and detailed feedback on assignments shaped my perspective and allowed me to apply the knowledge gained to other courses. Dr. Mindy McEntee taught me the significance of a holistic approach, emphasizing the need to study entire systems rather than focusing on isolated elements. She also helped me realize how the processes I have used in software development can be applied to addressing health-related concerns. Dr. Emer Lucey played a crucial role in helping me understand the role of ethics in population health — an area where I had no prior knowledge. Lastly, Dr. Jordan Miller, the program director, taught me the importance of community engagement and collaboration between community-based organizations to address health disparities. She was also instrumental in helping me secure the internship I wanted, which has been a blessing. The internship has provided me the perfect opportunity to apply the theories and knowledge I gained through academia to real-world situations.

Q: What was your favorite spot on campus, whether for studying, meeting friends or just thinking about life?

A: When I was on campus, I spent most of my time in the postdoctoral students' study area when I wasn’t in class. It is a quiet space where I could meet with my peers to work on projects or prepare before class.

Q: What’s the best piece of advice you’d give to those still in school?

A: I would say, stay connected to your 'why’ — the purpose and your goals that brought you here to ASU. When the journey feels tough, don’t give up; perseverance is key. Reach out to the supportive faculty at ASU, your peers and your family for encouragement and guidance. Take advantage of the resources available to you, from academic support to networking opportunities. Seek out internships or research projects, and other experiences that align with your program and career aspirations.

Q: What are your plans after graduation?

A: After graduation, I plan to continue to work with underserved populations. I am particularly interested in roles that allow me to work directly with communities to address social determinants of health and reduce health disparities. I believe that by engaging with underserved populations and involving them in the development and implementation of preventive health programs, I can make a meaningful impact.

Q: If someone gave you $40 million to solve one problem on our planet, what would you tackle?

A: I feel education is the key to escaping the cycle of poverty. I would establish a school with dormitory facilities to provide quality education for children living in poverty. By fostering their growth and success, future generations of these individuals would enjoy improved living conditions, ultimately contributing to reduced health disparities and greater health equity. 

Empowering women is also something that is close to my heart. Many women, especially moms and daughters, often neglect their own well-being, putting themselves last on their priority list. I am guilty of that as well. I would also establish an organization that provides resources and support to help women prioritize their health and personal growth, offering programs focused on their well-being and helping them lead fulfilling lives while balancing their responsibilities.