London School of Hygiene & Tropical Medicine

Where and what did you study before joining LSHTM?

Before joining the London School of Hygiene & Tropical Medicine, I studied a BSc in Biology at Liverpool John Moores University. I enjoyed the modules offered, but it was during my research project that I found a clear direction in exploring public health issues within women’s health. That experience solidified my desire to pursue public health and led me to discover LSHTM and MSc Public Health.

What barriers have you faced during your education?

My journey to this point has not been linear, and financial barriers have been one of the most significant challenges I have faced throughout my education. While I recognise that, here in the UK, education offers opportunities not universally available, accessing and sustaining them has still required resilience. As a first-generation university student, I navigated decisions around courses, funding, and career direction independently, all while balancing part-time work alongside full-time study to support myself.

I initially began studying nursing, but after my first year, I realised it was not the right path. Letting go of that goal was difficult and left me uncertain, as changing courses meant stepping into the unknown without a clear direction, forcing me to rethink my future.

How have the barriers you’ve faced shaped your academic and personal development?

They have made me more resilient, adaptable, and proactive in my learning. I have had to take initiative, whether that meant teaching myself new analytical skills, navigating complex decisions independently, or continuing forward despite uncertainty. These experiences have also strengthened my ability to reflect, problem-solve, and remain focused on my long-term goals, even when the path towards them has changed.

What advice would you give to someone to help them overcome a similar challenge?

Don't become too fixated on a rigid long-term plan. While having direction is important, it is equally important to accept that plans can change. Avoid comparing yourself to others; although it may seem like others have everything figured out, everyone faces their own challenges, whether visible or not. Most importantly, take initiative in your own development. You may need to be proactive, seek out opportunities, and teach yourself new skills, but these efforts will build confidence and independence over time.

As a scholarship recipient, how would you describe the impact this has had on you?

Receiving the LSHTM Next Generation Scholarship has relieved the financial pressure that I was concerned would affect both my ability to pursue postgraduate study and my academic performance. Without this support, I would have needed to balance work alongside my studies, reducing the time I could dedicate to learning. The scholarship has allowed me to fully immerse myself in my degree and focus on achieving my goals. Beyond the financial support, it has also provided a strong sense of recognition; I feel valued for the effort I have put into my education and motivated to continue striving for impact.

Many of our scholarships are kindly funded through philanthropy – what message would you like to share with someone considering contributing to our scholarship programme?

To those considering contributing to the scholarship programme, your support extends far beyond financial assistance. You are investing in individuals who are committed to improving public health and addressing real-world challenges. You are enabling students from diverse and underrepresented backgrounds to access opportunities that may otherwise be out of reach. This impact is not only limited to the individual; it contributes to wider societal change, empowering future professionals to make meaningful contributions to health systems and communities.

What has surprised you about LSHTM?

The strength of its community. While many universities emphasise diversity, LSHTM truly embodies it; not only in terms of nationality, but also in the range of professional backgrounds, experiences, and perspectives students bring. This enriches discussions in a way that goes beyond theory, grounding learning in real-world contexts. I have also been particularly inspired by opportunities such as the Global Health Lecture Series, which allows students to engage with experts and current issues beyond the classroom.

What are your plans for after your MSc degree?

I hope to pursue further academic research through a PhD, focusing on women’s health within digital health and femtech. I am particularly interested in how data-driven approaches can improve health education and empower individuals to make informed decisions about their health. 

What advice would you give to someone considering applying for your programme and/or the Next Generation scholarship at LSHTM?

My advice is to be authentic. Every experience, whether directly related to health or not, has value. LSHTM brings together individuals from diverse backgrounds, each contributing something unique. Focus on your purpose: what drives you, what impact you want to make, and how further study will help you achieve that. Do not underestimate your story, there is space for you here.

• More student blogs on widening participation.
• Explore how the LSHTM Scholarship Fund is shaping the future of the next generation of global health leaders.
• Learn more about MSc Public Health at LSHTM.