London School of Hygiene & Tropical Medicine

It feels surreal to be writing this blog from my new home in London, where I’m pursuing an MSc Public Health at the London School of Hygiene & Tropical Medicine (LSHTM). Just a few months ago, I was navigating the streets of Chennai, weighing career choices and reflecting on what my future would hold. Little did I know, this journey would lead me to one of the most prestigious public health institutions in the world.

Deciding to pursue public health

It's not always easy to know what path to take, especially when there are so many options in front of you. After completing my Pharm.D., I felt a pull towards clinical research, but I also had a feeling that my real passion was in public health. It was during my internship with Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR) that I found my true calling researching public health challenges and advocating for accessible health solutions for all. I realised that to make a real impact, I needed to focus on systemic change, which is where public health comes in.

Why LSHTM?

I'll admit, when I first heard of LSHTM, I was in awe. I came across the institution while exploring top public health schools, and the more I learned, the more certain I became - this was where I wanted to be. LSHTM's reputation for shaping global health policies, it's world-class faculty, and it's commitment to tackling pressing public health challenges made it my top choice.

Why London? To be honest, my decision wasn't about the city - it was about LSHTM. If LSHTM had been in any other country, I would have gone there instead. My goal was always to study at LSHTM, and London just happened to be the place where my journey led me. But how does one go from Chennai to study at a global institution in London? It wasn't an easy leap. From the application process to securing financial aid, the journey required patience and persistence. But with the support of mentors and friends, and a bit of luck, I found myself packing my bags for London.

LSHTM experience: challenges and triumphs

Settling in London wasn't as smooth as I expected, especially when it came to adjusting to a new educational system. The workload is intense, and balancing studies with part-time work as a freelance consultant is no small feat. But every challenge has been a stepping stone toward growth. The lessons I've learned, not just in the classroom but in every interaction with my peers and professors, have shaped me into a more driven and confident individual. I’ve also realised how interconnected the world's health challenges are, and that global solutions require diverse perspectives.

One of the best parts about LSHTM is the strong sense of community. 

Being around people who are passionate about public health makes every struggle worthwhile. From late-night study sessions to sharing ideas with classmates from around the globe, I've found that we're all here for the same reason: to make a difference.

Building a career while studying

Studying at LSHTM is just one part of my experience here. I've also taken steps to build my career. One of the first things I did after arriving in London was apply for internships and part-time work. I'm currently balancing my academic responsibilities with freelance services, where I assist students with thesis writing, statistical analysis, and presentation design (remote work in India). It's a way for me to stay connected to my passion for education and research while also learning the ropes of entrepreneurship.

I've also had the chance to network with professionals in public health and healthcare, attend seminars, and participate in workshops all of which have been invaluable in shaping my career.

My dream of social entrepreneurship

I've always had a strong desire to merge my academic knowledge with real-world applications, especially in the field of social entrepreneurship. My dream is to launch initiatives that bridge the gap between healthcare access and underserved communities. With the skills I'm gaining here at LSHTM, I'm confident that I can create meaningful change in public health.

A word of advice: follow your passion

If there's one thing I’ve learned from my journey so far, it's this: don't be afraid to follow your passion, even if it feels daunting. Whether you're at a crossroads in your career or just starting your academic journey, trust that persistence pays off. There will be moments of doubt, but don't let them stop you. Surround yourself with a supportive community, keep pushing forward, and the path will unfold.

As Dale Carnegie wisely said, "Formal education will make you a living, but self-education will make you a fortune." This quote resonates deeply with me because it speaks to the heart of what I'm doing here at LSHTM. My formal education will shape my career, but it's the self-education and the continuous drive to learn that will open doors to a future filled with opportunity.

I'm just getting started, but I'm already excited to see where this adventure takes me. 

• Discover MSc Public Health.
• Contact Yogavigneshwaran via our contact student & alumni ambassador page.
• Discover ways to study at LSHTM
• Read more: Moving to London: 5 steps to get yourself settled in London as an international student