Student Spotlight: Hanti Feng
Learn how the MHS in Mental Health program is helping a former nursing student connect her clinical experience with research and public health
Where are you from? Taiwan. Currently living in Baltimore, MD.
Online or in-person student: In-person, full-time
What's one activity or hobby that helps you support your mental health? I love reading, drawing, and dancing. Lately I've been dancing with my MHS cohort, and it has been such a fun way to stay active and connect outside of class.
What drew you to the Bloomberg School and the Master of Health Science in Mental Health program?
With a background in nursing, I’ve always been interested in older adults’ mental health, especially ways to prevent dementia. When I learned that Johns Hopkins is home to the only Department of Mental Health within a school of public health, I knew it would be the right place to deepen my understanding. The MHS program felt like the perfect opportunity to connect my clinical experience with research and public health.
What is your research focus and what sparked your interest in it?
My research interests center on aging and mental health. I’m curious about how emotions, social engagement, and daily activities can support brain health and protect against cognitive decline. This interest grew from my experiences working with older adults during my nursing training, where I saw how staying connected and maintaining a positive outlook made such a difference in their well-being.
"The MHS program felt like the perfect opportunity to connect my clinical experience with research and public health."
Tell us about a class, project, or faculty partnership that has been especially meaningful.
Joining the Brain Health Lab meetings with Michelle Carlson, PhD, and Kyle Moored, PhD, has been one of the highlights of my time here. The discussions are always insightful, and I’ve learned a lot about how lifestyle and emotional well-being relate to brain health and aging. Both Dr. Carlson and Dr. Moored are incredibly supportive, and their enthusiasm for research has made me feel inspired and welcomed into the Department’s community.
What do you like most about living in Baltimore?
I’ve built a wonderful community here with my MHS cohort and my neighbors, which has made it feel like home. There are so many cozy cafés and scenic spots to explore, and the seafood is amazing. I’ve definitely become a fan of the crab cakes.
What do you hope to do with your MHS experience after graduation?
After graduation, I hope to work as a healthcare consultant or analyst focusing on improving mental health and care systems for the aging population. In the long term, I want to use what I’ve learned at Hopkins to help strengthen aging-related care and policy, whether back in Taiwan or in other parts of the world where I can make a positive impact.
What do you like most about the MHS program?
One thing that has made my MHS experience so special is the sense of community. Everyone here is genuinely kind and supportive, and I’ve met so many inspiring people in my cohort who share the same passion for public mental health. The environment encourages collaboration and personal growth, which has made my time at Hopkins both meaningful and rewarding.
