Amna is a Master's in Public Health student from Pakistan and is a recipient of the prestigious Chevening Scholarship. Before joining the course, Amna completed an undergraduate degree in Economics and gained experience working as a research analyst. Here, she shares her thoughts on her time at Warwick and offers five top tips for other international applicants.

Can you tell us a bit about your background and professional experience?

Prior to joining the Master's in Public Health, I completed a BSc in Economics at Lahore University of Management Sciences (LUMS), graduating with High Merit. My senior project, which focused on the Lahore Metro Bus and its impact on female labor force participation, sparked my interest in the intersection of public policy and socio-economic development.

I bring substantial research experience, having worked as a Research Analyst at both the Centre for Economic Research in Pakistan and Research and Development Solutions. I have contributed to high-impact projects such as analyzing zero-dose vaccination risks in Pakistan, developing data-driven dashboards for labor market trends, and producing policy briefs on Pakistan’s Human Development Index. I also led capacity-building sessions on epidemiology and statistical analysis, improving participant understanding by 30%.

In addition to my research roles, I interned at Acasus – Brave Change, where I supported COVID-19 response strategies, including real-time situation reporting and training data collection assistants across 35 districts. I’ve also been involved in public health and education-related projects, such as analyzing maternal and child nutrition products in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa and developing surveys to profile private healthcare systems in Pakistan.

In terms of leadership, I have served as a Teaching Assistant at LUMS and as Project Lead for the Gender-Based Violence Taskforce affiliated with UNCTAD, where I led a team to design and implement educational curricula for university students across Pakistan. My work in these roles has honed my skills in data analysis, project management, and client relationship management, and I am deeply passionate about driving evidence-based public health policy.

Why did you decide to apply to the Master’s in Public Health at Warwick Medical School?

I chose to pursue my Master’s in Public Health at Warwick Medical School due to its outstanding faculty, innovative curriculum, and global reputation for excellence. Warwick's flexible MPH program, with its focus on the global health pathway, aligns perfectly with my career goals of addressing public health challenges in Pakistan. I am particularly drawn to the International Health Policy and Global Health modules, which will provide me with valuable insights into global health trends and policy frameworks that can be applied to Pakistan’s healthcare system.

One aspect of Warwick’s MPH program that excites me is the module on "Public Mental Health and Wellbeing: Measurements, Determinants, and Promotion." This is especially relevant to my previous work on the E-TeleHealth project, which highlighted the lack of awareness about mental health benefits among Karachi's slum dwellers. Mental health remains a neglected area in Pakistan, particularly in low-income regions, and I am eager to deepen my understanding of community-based mental health care in developing countries. This unique module will equip me with the skills and knowledge needed to design effective mental health interventions, helping to fill this critical gap in public health services in Pakistan.

Studying in the UK offers an invaluable opportunity to learn from global experts, collaborate with diverse peers, and gain a broader perspective on addressing public health challenges. Warwick's emphasis on research and its collaborative approach to learning will be instrumental in shaping my future career as a leader in public health policy and practice in Pakistan.

 

How did you find the transition to life and study in the UK? How have you found the course?

The transition to life and study in the UK has been both exciting and challenging. As a postgraduate student in an intensive one-year program, the pace is fast, and the structure of the modules is quite different from what I was used to. Each module is typically taught in a single day, and it’s completed within a week, which initially left me a bit confused about how it all operated. However, thanks to the support of my course director, Saran Shantikumar, and the engaging format of the classes, I soon adapted. The classes were both fun and enlightening, and the energy was always high, especially when starting the day with a hot cup of coffee or tea, thanks to our course director, who made sure we were all energized.

The modules also feature guest lecturers from leading UK health organizations, such as UKHSA, which provided invaluable practical insights into how public health systems operate in the UK. As an international student, most of my experience was based on the healthcare systems of my home country, so learning about the UK system was incredibly informative and broadened my understanding of global public health practices. The collaboration with my course mates and the guidance from tutors made the academic transition smoother, and I quickly felt integrated into the learning process.

Outside of academics, there is a vibrant student life at Warwick, which has made my experience even more enjoyable. I am actively involved in several student-run societies, which offer a great way to engage with the campus community and beyond. One of the best decisions I made was joining the "Warwick Duke of Edinburgh's Award Society." Through this society, I have had the chance to explore beautiful places around Coventry, such as Kenilworth and Leamington Spa, and even hiked to the tallest peak in Wales, Snowdonia. These activities have been a highlight of my time in the UK and have given me the opportunity to connect with other students while exploring the country. Overall, the transition has been smooth, thanks to both the academic environment and the many extracurricular opportunities that enrich student life.

 

What tips do you have for other international applicants to the Master's in Public Health?

For international applicants considering the Master’s in Public Health (MPH) at Warwick, here are a few tips based on my own experience:

1. Familiarize Yourself with the UK Education System: The structure of postgraduate programs in the UK can be quite different from what you might be used to. The pace is fast, and the modules often focus on practical, real-world applications. Take time to understand the expectations regarding assignments, assessments, and group work. It can initially feel overwhelming, but once you get into the rhythm, it becomes more manageable.
2. Stay Proactive with Networking: One of the best aspects of studying at Warwick is the opportunity to engage with a diverse range of professionals and peers. Attend networking events, talks, and seminars. Don’t hesitate to connect with guest lecturers, professors, and your course mates. Building a professional network early on will enhance your learning and open doors for future collaborations or career opportunities.
3. Make the Most of Student Societies: Warwick has a wealth of student-run societies that cater to a wide variety of interests. Joining these societies can help you feel connected and make your time in the UK more enjoyable. Whether it's sports, volunteering, or something related to your course, these societies are an excellent way to meet like-minded people and explore new activities. I personally found the Warwick Duke of Edinburgh's Award Society incredibly rewarding, as it allowed me to explore the UK and connect with others outside of the academic sphere.
4. Be Prepared for Independent Learning: The UK education system places a strong emphasis on independent study. While lectures provide the foundation, a significant portion of your learning will take place through self-study and research. Be prepared to manage your time effectively and develop strong research and critical thinking skills. It’s essential to stay organized and proactive, especially given the fast pace of the program.
5. Embrace the UK’s Public Health Landscape: As an international student, this is an excellent opportunity to broaden your perspective on global public health. Engage with lectures, internships, and projects that focus on the UK’s public health system. This knowledge will be valuable in your studies and can be applied to public health issues in your home country.
6. Take Time to Explore the UK: Lastly, while academics are important, don’t forget to explore the country. The UK offers a lot of cultural, historical, and natural beauty, which can enhance your personal experience. Taking part in activities outside your studies will also help you feel more at home and connected to the local community.