James G. Soland

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"I want to devote my career to helping people who have medical needs, but do not have the resources to address them."

  • Alumni of: 2006 Graduate Scholarship Program
  • Resides: Walnut Creek, CA
  • Hometown: Purcellville, VA
  • Age: 32

Biography

James Soland says his aspirations for a career in international health are rooted in his own challenges as a life-long diabetic and the experience he has gained working on health issues in the United States. "I have witnessed the catastrophic impact that living without medical care can have on those with chronic conditions. " He now wants to apply his skills overseas in China. "The public health issues confronted by China are nearly unrivaled in terms of their global reach."

James is pursuing a master's degree in East Asian studies at Stanford, where he plans to improve on five years of Chinese, study the intricacies of the culture, and take coursework in international health and education. Afterwards, he hopes to work for the World Bank or the World Health Organization in Beijing. James expects his expertise will have further applications. "By developing an in-depth knowledge of one country, I will one day be able to address how nations interact to impact health care."

James says his present work as a policy aide and communications director for a Massachusetts state senator, influencing legislation on health care and other issues, is very fulfilling. "I look forward to continuing what I love best-advocating for those who do not have a natural lobby. Especially when medical care is concerned, everyone deserves a voice."

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