Sekinat hails from southwestern Nigeria and holds a BSc and an MSc in Microbiology from the University of Lagos. Prior to joining Warwick, she worked as a Research Associate at FOWM Biotechnology Limited in Lagos before taking on a role as a Programme Officer for the Development Governance International Consult in Abuja. Here she gained four years’ experience in designing, implementing and managing health systems, strengthening research and interventions towards safeguarding public health.

Sekinat was able to come to Warwick after being offered a 2024 Commonwealth Shared Scholarship, jointly funded by the Commonwealth Service Commission in the UK and the University of Warwick. Here, she tells us about her experience so far.

 

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

I decided to apply to the Master’s in Public Health programme at the University of Warwick because of the School's renowned reputation and the comprehensive curriculum design which aids an in-depth understanding of the principles, theories, and practices in public health. The course is strategically structured to equip students with the skills and knowledge required for effective Public Health practice.

I was fascinated by the multidisciplinary nature of the course and the varying methods of assessment which I believe is a test of true capabilities. The optional job placement also bolstered my interest in studying at Warwick as it provides students with the opportunity to experience recruitment processes and undertake real-world projects in a public health setting in the UK or internationally.

 

Was there anything in particular that drew you to studying in the UK?

I was drawn to studying in the UK because of the available scholarship opportunities and how the UK encourages international students. This presented me with an opportunity to learn and work with a diverse range of students from both clinical and non-clinical backgrounds from the UK and other countries, bringing richness to the course, hence, enhancing my learning.

 

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

I am coping well with life and study in the UK, though it was not easy initially. I benefited from several support services (e.g. academic support, Students' Union activities, society activities and Islamic chaplaincy) available on the campus. The Welcome Week activities were also helpful in settling in as an international student.

 

How have you found the start of the course?

I have found the start of the course interesting and I was blown away by the humility and dedication of the lecturers, especially our incredibly supportive course director Associate Professor Saran Shantikumar. I enjoyed and appreciated the fact that we’ve had public health professionals outside the university teach some topics, we were availed with real word scenarios and this broadened the discussion we had during those topics. I have participated in several pieces of group work where I worked with other students from different countries and academic backgrounds to achieve a common goal. I also appreciate that despite my busy schedules of attending classes, reading and working on assignments, I have still been able to give back to society through the Warwick Volunteers.

 

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

My advice to other international applicants is to demonstrate commitment to and interest in Public Health during their application. The MPH programme offers transferrable skills which are optional, I would advise international students to take good advantage of the resources and extra curriculum opportunities available. Most importantly, they must be ready to do the work and come to Warwick with an open mindset to unlearn, learn and relearn.