How To Kick Off Your Global Health Studies

In the month of September, we will see more students around the world embarking on a journey into the fascinating and complex concept of Global Health. With the increasing necessity of health professionals who have a multilateral approach to tackling health challenges which transcend boundaries and nationalities, I wanted to share a little advise as a soon to be second year MSc student within this topic

Tip #1 Engross Yourself

The realm of Global Health is an expansive, complex and ever changing spectrum of challenges. Whether it be what is on the forefront of the worldwide media’s attention or the forgotten unattractive neglected health issues, it should never fail to spark an interest in you. Regardless if you have or find a niche interest early on or whether you are discovering new topics each day, follow your passion and feel free to geek out. Live and breathe everything which global health topics bring to your feet. There is certainly a lot to keep you busy !

Tip #2 Social Media 

Embrace the digital age. I was initially sceptical using Twitter and blogging. However after a year of use, I am glad to report I have found it to be a extremely useful tool. Twitter not only allows you keep up to date with a range of key actors and figures within Global Health, but allows you to contribute your voice and opinions on breaking news within these online communities. Blogging goes one step further in relation to providing you with a voice. Here you get the chance to research, plan and write a concise informative piece on a topic of your choice. I have found this to be great writing practice prior to examinations, along with a great way to keep on top of relevant global health topics. 

Flickr: Widjaya Ivan

Tip #3 Network                                                          

It may sound obvious but I would highly recommend networking as much as you can. This can be through the previously mentioned social media outlets, but also in your day to day lectures. Regardless if it’s a internal or external lecture, a quick google of their name pre lecture is always a good idea to see who will be standing in front of you for the next 120 minutes. If you find yourself  encapsulated during their talk or you have a specific interest which matches theirs, don’t be afraid to pop up after the lecture for a chat and grab their email. It’s also important to not to forget networking amongst your fellow students. After all these are the people who will be dispersing into the  broad world of global health in 12/24 months. 

Tip #4 Be Adventurous 

You don’t always have to reinvent the wheel, but try and think outside the box. Follow your passions and don’t be afraid to incorporate new approaches to new or existing health challenges. It can be daunting starting a new programme, sometimes even in a new environment, but don’t be afraid to go out of your comfort zone and jump in the deep end. Even if you find yourself struggling to swim at first, there is always someone nearby to give a helping hand if needed.

Flickr: Josh Sommers

Tip #5 Seize the moment 

It’s amazing how time flies when you are having fun. There is no doubt that you will find yourself in the same position as I am right now wondering where the time has disappeared ? However I console myself with the fact that over the last 12 months, I have had the most rewarding academic experience to date, while meeting some inspiring individuals and gaining invaluable experiences around the world. So I hope that all the new Global Health students take advantage of the time and opportunities they have at their disposal and enjoy their first year of studies further developing as a post graduate student !

Tip #6 ‘Think Globally, Act Locally’

It’s a saying which was mentioned at the end of our induction week last year. It’s simply been stuck in our heads ever since and is our unofficial mantra. I also believe it epitomises Global Health as a topic and should be a concept which is embedded into the daily lives of all health students and professionals.

Flickr: Patrick Q