Yanissa Rivera

Yanissa Rivera is a recent graduate of the University of Wisconsin-Madison with a bachelor’s degree in Global Health and Psychology. While working towards her undergraduate degree, she was a research assistant at the Addiction Research Center, assisting with digital therapeutics to help prevent, manage, and treat substance abuse diseases. She was also a research assistant for the Qualitative and Health Experiences Research Lab (Q-HER), learning about the lived experiences of families with rare genetic disorders, as well as the perspectives of clinicians. Yanissa is now an Emergency Medical Technician (EMT) and works as a Clinical Laboratory Scientist at Exact Sciences.

At REAL, Yanissa works part-time as a Research Operations Assistant, providing essential support on a number of projects.

Yanissa is passionate about reproductive justice and is committed to advancing equitable healthcare. In the future, she aspires to attend medical school and pursue a career as an obstetrician-gynecologist. As a future healthcare provider, Yanissa aims to provide compassionate and comprehensive care that addresses the social, emotional, and systemic factors that impact reproductive health. Yanissa is excited deepen her understanding of reproductive health in her role at REAL, and use these insights to support her future patients holistically, and ensure they receive accessible and equitable care.

What is your favorite thing to nerd out about?
I love to nerd out about books. My most recent read is “Everything in Turbuculosis” By John Green. I highly recommend it! I suggest listening to it on audible or Spotify – John Green narrates the audiobook!

What is your favorite hobby or pastime?
In my free time, I enjoy spending as much time with my friends as possible. Together we enjoy pottery classes, going for walks, and trying new restaurants in Madison.

What’s your favorite outdoor activity?
I love going apple picking during the fall, as well as going to a pumpkin patch. During the summer, I enjoy visiting the beach when I visit my family in Puerto Rico, and going on long bike rides with my friends.