My journey down under to study Public Health

The last eight months in Australia have been life-changing, full of insightful lessons and significant adjustments. I’ve left behind my home country, family, and friends to study a Master of Public Health at Federation’s Berwick Campus in Melbourne. Australia attracted to me with its vast cultural diversity, compelling nature, and top-notch education.

My background is in medicine, having earned my MBBS degree in Bangladesh. I wanted to transition to a career in public health because I desired to have a broader impact on the health of the population rather than focusing on individual patient care. My first semester was challenging but rewarding too. I studied foundational subjects such as Introduction to Public Health, Indigenous Health, Health Promotion, and Epidemiology. Navigating assignments and presentations was a big learning curve but set me up for success in the rest of my studies. Beyond textbooks, I also formed friendships with kindred spirits from psychology and nursing and participated in clubs like the Berwick Islamic Society and Psychology Club.

The highlight of my first semester was the Ramadan iftar hosted by the Islamic Society - a celebration of cultural diversity that I eagerly embraced. Beyond the campus, my exploration delved into the nuances of local life, navigating parks, markets, and tourist attractions around my new home. Melbourne's dynamic cityscape became a recurrent backdrop for my adventures, both day and night. Culinary exploration became a delightful global journey, from Aussie classics to Turkish delights and Pakistani curries. Aussie desserts emerged as a sweet indulgence, capturing my heart amid diverse gastronomic experiences. Obtaining a Victorian driving license opened doors to breathtaking landscapes, with Philip Island standing out as a gem in my exploration. Each friendship, club, and cultural exploration unveiled the vibrant beauty of life in my newfound home, enriching my journey in unexpected ways. This journey so far has not only been academically enriching but has also empowered me with practical skills and knowledge essential for me to succeed.

In my second semester, I honed my skills in Epidemiology, Health Promotion, Indigenous Health, Biostatistics and more – giving me a solid understanding of core concepts in the public health landscape. I worked hard and am very proud to say I achieved High Distinctions in my second semester with thanks to the support services at Federation University. My specialization in health economics and MPH research propels me towards cancer research, fostering dreams of collaboration with the dynamic oncology industry. My career aspirations envision roles as a health promotion officer, a research assistant in clinical trials, and the ultimate triumph of seeing my research etched into the pages of reputable journals.

If you are passionate about community well-being and want to have a profound impact on society, I encourage you to study Federation’s Master of Public Health. Imagine the ripple effect your knowledge could have on preventing diseases, promoting healthy lifestyles, and advocating for policies that enhance the overall well-being of populations. You do not need to have a background in health to be successful either. This field needs individuals from many disciplines to contribute their unique viewpoints to understanding and addressing the complex interplay of societal factors influencing health outcomes.

Together, we can be a catalyst for positive change.