London School of Hygiene & Tropical Medicine

Tell us about your studies at LSHTM and why you chose your programmes

Maria-Paula: I am pursuing an MSc in Medical Parasitology and Entomology, because parasitic diseases are among the world’s most neglected yet have a huge social impact, LSHTM offers the strongest training in this field.

Alina: I’m studying the MSc Control of Infectious Diseases at LSHTM. Working as a contact tracer and vaccine outreach coordinator during the COVID-19 pandemic sparked my interest in infectious diseases, public health interventions, and epidemiology. I chose this MSc because it offers a unique opportunity to explore the intersection of epidemiology, policy, and health systems strengthening.

What did you do before this MSc and how did you become interested in vaccines?

Maria-Paula: I did my BSc in Microbiology, and I was fascinated by the immune system and vaccine immunity. Mechanistically, vaccines are remarkable feats of scientific engineering, and they are among the most impactful inventions to have changed the course of history.

Alina: Before this MSc, I worked as a strategy consultant for the World Bank on the 2026–2030 strategy of the Global Financing Facility for Women, Children, and Adolescents and gained public health experience with organisations like Gavi, the Vaccine Alliance. During the COVID-19 pandemic, I founded a vaccine advocacy initiative in Oklahoma, training students to use relational organising to improve vaccination rates in the Black community. These experiences highlighted global challenges in vaccine access and inspired my focus on vaccine equity and pandemic preparedness.

Why did you apply to become SCAs for the Vaccine Centre?

Maria-Paula: There is plenty of vaccine scepticism, and I have seen the harm it causes firsthand. I want to be in a position where I can raise awareness about the importance of vaccines, both to inform the public and to highlight ongoing vaccine research.

Alina: Vaccines are one of our most powerful tools to prevent deaths and strengthen global health security. I was excited to support the Vaccine Centre’s research and help share its insights with students and the wider community.

What do you hope to achieve during your time as SCAs of the Vaccine Centre?

Maria-Paula: I hope to contribute as an ambassador by writing engaging blog posts and helping to organise valuable events. And of course, I want to learn as much as I can from the experts.

Alina: I’m particularly concerned about the rise of vaccine misinformation and hope to leverage the Vaccine Centre’s expertise to disseminate accessible, accurate information on vaccine safety and importance. I also aim to support student engagement initiatives, helping peers learn about the Centre and immunisation-related careers. Personally, I hope to gain insights into potential pathways for my future career as a physician-scientist and vaccine advocate.

Where do you see yourself after you have finished your MSc?

Maria-Paula: There are a few possible paths, but the main one is working in research, preferably in vaccine development, particularly veterinary vaccines, or more broadly within immunology. It’s hard to know exactly where I’ll end up, but I aim to follow my values.

Alina: I hope to attend medical school and pursue training in infectious diseases, so I can work at the intersection of clinical practice, advocacy, and public health.

What do you like doing in your spare time? What do you most enjoy about studying in London

Maria-Paula: I’m a nature person; I love hiking and mountaineering. What I enjoy most about studying in London is its cultural richness, with so many museums, musicals, and theatre performances to get lost in.

Alina: I really enjoy concerts, and London has been incredible for live music. I’ve seen a concert almost every week since arriving. I’ve also deeply appreciated learning from the diverse backgrounds and experiences of my classmates and having the opportunity to live and study in such a vibrant city.

A fun or interesting fact about yourself you would be happy to share

Maria-Paula: Some people might find this terrifying, but I have a pet tarantula!

Alina: Martial arts are a huge part of my life. Nothing helps me destress like hitting the bag or learning new techniques, and last year I even competed professionally as an international boxer in Chiang Mai, Thailand.

How can people get and stay in touch with you?

Maria-Paula: Preferably by email at [email protected]

Alina: Feel free to email me: [email protected]. I’m happy to connect about vaccines, infectious disease, or student life at LSHTM!