Shivangi Shah

What inspired you to study public health?

During my undergraduate studies in health sciences, I enrolled in a public health elective and immediately realized I found my ideal career. The prospect of making a significant impact on community well-being and addressing health disparities on a larger scale resonated deeply with me.

What has been the single most rewarding experience of your career/studies so far?

In the realm of public health, every day presents rewarding experiences. I want to highlight my involvement in a research practicum at Monash University’s School of Public Health and Preventive Medicine from 2020-2021. This opportunity allowed me to contribute to pivotal COVID-19 research during the pandemic, leading to one of the most widely read and cited papers. Beyond providing a profound global health perspective, this opportunity served as a pivotal and gratifying experience that paved the foundation for my doctoral studies, fuelling my commitment to fostering impactful public health initiatives worldwide.

What do you hope to accomplish in your career?

My goal is to pursue a career in academia, guiding students through their research and translating my knowledge to the next generation of public health professionals. Additionally, once a I complete my PhD I aspire to lead a research project and have a voice in policy around areas of transport activity and walkability concerning older adults.

Advice:

Collaboration, connections, and networking is key to success in Public Health. Additionally, try to get hands-on experience in areas that interest you.