I had developed a profound interest in the inequalities of global health and knew that I wanted to pursue a career in helping to combat these imbalances - whether that was through research, service provision, or policy. This degree stood out to me due to the perfect balance of health and geography modules, something I believed (and still do!) would give me valuable elevation into the field.
Why did you choose to study an MA in Development and Global Health at Queen Mary?I chose to study an MA in Development and Global Health after completing my BA in Geography at Queen Mary. I had developed a profound interest in the inequalities of global health and knew that I wanted to pursue a career in helping to combat these imbalances - whether that was through research, service provision, or policy. This degree stood out to me due to the perfect balance of health and geography modules, something I believed (and still do!) would give me valuable elevation into the field. Alongside a field trip to Geneva, bespoke and interesting modules, and the support of leading academics in the field, every opportunity offered throughout this programme was something I knew I held a passion for.
What did you enjoy most about the programme?I enjoyed the broad scope of material that was taught throughout the programme. Looking back, this degree set me up with extensive knowledge and experience of research method design and development, something that has given me a head start within my current role. This programme also allows you to really understand and develop your own interests within your particular field, a lot of which is left up to you to research and formulate accordingly. Due to this, I developed a specific interest in sexual and reproductive health in which I focused many of my assignments, all covering different elements. This in turn lead to the extensive development of my chosen dissertation title, 'The Impacts of President Trump's 'Protecting Life in Global Health Assistance' Policy Expansion in Humanitarian Settings: The Democratic Republic of Congo'. This encouragement from my degree enabled me to really push myself into my passions and, thanks to this, I have now been a member of the Global Gag Rule Research Working Group for over two years.
What does your current role involve day to day?I am now a researcher at the London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine. I am currently working on a randomised controlled trial which aims to support new mums in adopting a healthy lifestyle and weight maintenance through text message intervention. My day-to-day roles include community and GP recruitment for the trial and ensuring eligibility of participants and data collection through biometric measurements, questionnaires and interviews. I have also been assigned to several other projects and have contributed to the write-up of publications, formulation of tables for articles, alongside the more logistical side of R&D and IRAS submissions.What are your favourite aspects of your job?Besides the genuinely very interesting content of the data I am collecting within my current trial, one of my favourite aspects of my job has to be meeting and socialising with participants on a daily basis. It is great to be able to communicate with new people, and I believe that gaining a positive relationship, especially with study participants, thoroughly engages you into your job. This is one of the great perks of research.