Meet Brenice, a PhD student at Johns Hopkins University who is tackling one of the most pressing issues of our time – sexual and reproductive health disparities among Black women.
As she works towards her PhD in Nursing, Brenice’s research is focused on uncovering the social, political, and systemic factors that perpetuate these inequalities.
Her goal? To develop evidence-based, culturally responsive interventions that foster a just and equitable environment where Black women can thrive.
In Brenice’s own powerful words:
Black women are dying. Black women are suffering. Black women are ignored. It’s time we recognize that Black women are human and take urgent action!
A Journey Fueled by Personal Passion
The spark that ignited Brenice’s PhD journey started at the Ryan White clinic, where she served as the primary provider. Working with patients living with HIV, Brenice saw firsthand how many Black women still lacked accurate information about their condition, years after diagnosis. This disconnect between the lived experiences of Black women and the perception of healthcare providers was a startling wake-up call. Brenice recalls conversations with peers and colleagues who would state, “We don’t have an at-risk population,” a statement that seemed to blatantly ignore the reality right in front of them.
I knew I needed to do something, because we were gatekeeping vital health information due to our own bias and “risk” assessments
That something was pursuing a PhD to address these glaring disparities. Armed with research skills and a terminal degree, she knew she could drive the changes needed to bridge the gap between healthcare providers, health system stakeholders and the communities they serve.
A Mind-Blowing Realization: “Am I the Problem?”
One of the most profound discoveries Brenice has made during her research is a deeply personal one. She came to the difficult realization that even well-meaning individuals, herself included, could be contributing to the very disparities they seek to address.
“When I don’t make space for those most marginalized, correct peers, or listen to understand, I’m upholding the systems causing disparities,” Brenice admits. This realization led her to question not only the systems in place but also her own role in maintaining them. It’s a reminder emphasized by Brenice that “simply integrating more Black bodies into the same flawed systems won’t solve these layered issues. We need fundamental change.”
Brenice’s self-reflection doesn’t stop there. During her PhD journey, she found herself setting an age limit in her study’s eligibility criteria, focusing only on women in their reproductive years, for “simplicity”. It took a sharp-eyed NIH reviewer to question why she had excluded older women with her age limitations, making her ask herself again, “Am I the problem?” This moment of humility and self-awareness prompted Brenice to broaden her research scope, ensuring that her study was truly inclusive and reflective of all cisgender Black women’s experiences across the lifespan.
Productivity Secrets and Self-Care
Balancing the demands of a PhD with personal well-being is no small feat, but Brenice has found her rhythm. Her secret productivity tip? Giving herself grace and working when it feels most natural. For Brenice, this happens to be in the evenings from 6-10 PM, a time when she can focus without the distractions of meetings and emails. She’s also a firm believer in living by her calendar and to do lists – “if it’s not scheduled, it’s not happening and it’s so satisfying to be able to cross a task off the to-do list.”
This balance is essential, especially as Brenice pours so much of herself into her research and the community of Black women she centers in her efforts. But she has a trusty companion to keep her grounded: her dog, Beauty. Beauty makes sure Brenice gets outside for brisk walks, and her joyful energy is the perfect antidote to long days spent in dissertation mode.
A Quiet Strength Behind the Scenes
Despite what people may think, Brenice considers herself an introvert at heart. While she’s reserved by nature, she places immense value on building meaningful connections. This quiet strength and deep care for others shine through in her work, as she strives to make a difference in the lives of Black women everywhere.
Brenice’s Takeaway for Fellow PhDs
Brenice’s journey is a reminder that the PhD process is not just about academic rigor. It’s also about personal growth and reflection. Her advice to others navigating this intense journey?
Give yourself grace, find your productive flow, don’t internalize “imposter syndrome” narratives, and always be willing to adapt when presented with new information.
Furthermore, when you start to unpack how harmful some of these larger systems are, it can really make you question yourself and wonder what your purpose is. I just want to remind you that being embedded in larger systems does not mean you have to be a part of the problem, instead it’s the perfect opportunity to be part of the solution by leveraging your privileges and finding your voice.
Lastly, don’t forget to make time for the things that keep you grounded – whether it’s brisk walks with your pup or simply giving yourself the space to rest and recharge.
If you would like to learn more about Brenice’s research, check out her pretty impressive Google Scholar profile. You can also follow Brenice’s journey on Instagram @thenpthatcares and stay tuned for the next Spotlight!
The PhD Race 
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