Faculty Say: Hildemar Dos Santos
As a new faculty member, what brought you to LLU SPH?
My name is Hildemar Dos Santos. I am in the School of Public Health, Health Promotion Department in the Preventive Care Program.
I just arrived from Hong Kong where I spent six years as the Director of the lifestyle management center in our two hospitals--Hong Kong Adventist Hospital and Tsuen Wan Adventist Hospital. So I come here with a little bit of the Chinese culture and Chinese influence.
Since I started working at Loma Linda in 1992, I got a dream to be a teacher in this School. Maybe I was inspired by some of the teachers here and the environment. I stayed in Loma Linda for nine years. This became a home to me, and I think I am now back home.
What is your favorite part of teaching and learning through research?
I like the classroom. I like to interact with the students--not only to teach, but also to learn with them. I am a practical person, so I am also involved in the practical part--how to apply the health concepts into real life.
In terms of research, what most interests me is the relationship between lifestyle and health. I still believe there are a lot of lifestyle practices to be studied and proven to be healthy.
Other than teaching, what activities do you plan to be involved with while here at LLU?
I would like to be involved in the development of health materials--videos, health assessment tools, and so on. Also, in terms outside the School, I will go to the Drayson Center for sure. I like to swim, play tennis, and other sports.
How do you see yourself impacting the world through your work?
How do I impact the world through my work? I think impacting students is the first step and they will impact the world.
What would you like to share about who you are and what you do that might encourage a student to come to LLU SPH?
I came from Brazil to Loma Linda in 1992. I learned to speak English in 1991. I was over 40 years old, married, with three children, and had to work. Things were not easy during that time. I would say to the students now, do not let any challenge prevent you from reaching your goals. It is hard, it is painful, but it is possible.
I would like to say something about Loma Linda University, too, especially about the School of Public Health. It is one of the few places with a sincere interest in health and prevention without compromising the health industry. So, if you are looking for a place where people are interested sincerely in heath, this is the place.
