I grew up in Cedar Rapids, Iowa and graduated from Luther College, in Decorah, Iowa, where I earned degrees in Biology and Russian studies. After starting medical school at the University of Iowa, I decided to pursue a combined MD/MPH degree. I completed my required MPH practicum in Russia at the Pavlov State Medical University, where I investigated the effects of alcohol use and HIV transmission at both a rural and an urban medical center. As a medical student, I volunteered with the Free Mental Health Clinic and the Mobile Clinic. In addition to spending time with my husband and daughter, my hobbies and interests include gardening, violin performance, knitting and physical fitness. My professional interests include chronic disease, nutrition, psychiatry, and women's health issues. Feel free to email me with any questions you may have! Email: julia-buchkina@uiowa.edu