My Experience
Fears and doubts
In the summer before GPH began, I was concerned about how this program would apply to my major. As I was studying information science, I didn't know how GPH would contribute to my course studies. However, this program taught me how public health has implications in every field. Now, I am even more motivated to apply my public health knowledge in the career that I decide to pursue post-graduation!
First day in person
One of the key moments of this program was the first time we all got to see each other in person! The first day of class last semester was amazing, as I was finally able to put faces to names :) It was great being able to connect with everyone after a tough year of virtual learning.
Access to healthcare
Healthcare access is extremely limited and affects different areas of the world so drastically. The region where my parents grew up (Mumbai) faces alarming disparities in health access, so this issue hits close to home. I hope to see efforts to improve health equity in regions like this.
Takeaway #1
Global health is a work in progress; it requires continuous attention and changes as our world evolves. It is important that we keep seeking ways to improve health services, responses, etc.
Favorite project of GPH!
Global health podcast
First year check-in
I really enjoyed the first year of GPH! Despite it being entirely virtual, I felt that the GPH faculty and staff were super engaging and tried to make the most of the circumstances. Through the small group discussions and engaging assignments, I felt very much connected to the material and people in my class despite not meeting them in person.
Practicum Poster
Finishing my practicum poster was a key moment, as I was working towards it for the entirety of the semester. I was extremely proud of the outcome and felt really fortunate to have the opportunity to involve myself in important work.
Environmental Factors
I have been an advocate for the environment my entire life. My experience as a volunteer at the Maryland Zoo taught me immensely about the importance of preservation and conservation of the environment to prevent pollution and drastic changes in the environment (floods, droughts, etc.).
Takeaway #2
Planning is essential to global health, as it allows for more effective outcomes. For instance, faster emergency responses, better preparedness for pandemics, more health resources readily available, etc.
Most impactful reading of the course
Half the Sky
Second year check-in
As we are nearing the end of GPH, I took some time to reflect on my experience this year as well. In-person classes certainly changed the game, as I felt an immediate shift in the energy of our class. From the dynamic conversations I have had to the amount of group work that we got to do, it really felt like there was a GPH community on campus. I'm going to miss this program, but I am so grateful I had the opportunity to get involved in it!
CPGH200 Final Project Presentation
Another project we had been working on for the entire semester was the final project for CPGH200. Our group put a lot of time and effort into that project, and we learned so much during the course of the project preparation!
Education
Health literacy is a privilege and something that I used to take for granted prior to being in this program. We have access to endless resources and have the opportunity to attend a school where we gain awareness about health. Moving forward, I know to appreciate the education that I'm given and use it to help others who may not have this same privilege.
Takeaway #3
Collaboration and intervention are key to improving health outcomes across the world. Recognizing where resources lie and knowing how to effectively intervene allows for a greater impact on the affected community.
A topic that I wish we had discussed more
Bioethics- Moral dilemmas within healthcare systems, ethical issues regarding health research, principles of quality healthcare, etc.
Things I enjoyed the most
During the course of this program, I thoroughly enjoyed all of our group discussions, collaborative work, and the presentations we would do in front of our peers in class!
GPH Film Club
I remember watching one of my favorite movies and being able to discuss its public health implications with other GPH students. It was such an interesting conversation, and I thoroughly enjoyed hearing other perspectives on the film. It was also great to be able to connect with other classmates in a relaxed setting!
Health Workers
The shortage of healthcare workers can be attributed to the low pay and underinvestment in the lives of these workers. My aunt is a nurse, and I have personally seen the amount of time and effort she dedicates to her job. However, these efforts feel severely undervalued in the healthcare industry. This is certainly something I hope to see improved.
Takeaway #4
Healthcare equity is one of the most pressing issues of global health. Improving access to healthcare is a key focus for future global health strides.
Most challenging part of the program
CPGH200 Final Project- creating an intervention with all its elements (protocol, deliverable, conceptual model, etc.)
Moving forward
In the future, I know that I will be applying what I learned in this program to my career. I now recognize the importance of community action in public health, and I feel confident in my abilities as an informed member of the community to contribute to the positive change in public health efforts.
Check-in with Dr. Maring
One of the moments I remember the most about this program was the check-in I had with Dr. Maring in Fall 2020. I remember having the most engaging conversation about India and the limited healthcare resources. It was amazing to see her so interested in my culture and background- it made me recognize the passion that GPH staff has for their students :) This certainly made me more excited for future semesters and discussions in the program!
Technology
Technology in public health is a glimpse into the future of health services. As of now, breakthroughs in technology contribute to more effective methods of treatment and prevention. Technology will take higher precedence in health fields. Given my inclination to work in technology, I am motivated to see how my work can contribute to improved health outcomes.
Takeaway #5
Global health revolves around the social determinants of health. From income status to literacy, to healthcare access, the determinants play a key role in one's health outcomes.
Biggest piece of advice to pass onto the next GPH class
Try to think about the public health implications when doing your project and practicum! Each assignment that we complete has a purpose in the grander scheme of public health, and understanding that purpose helps set yourself up to be a more informed, active individual! (Also don't wait until the last minute to figure out your practicum project ;) )