Carolyne Njihia
Master of Social HealthResearch Interest*: The negotiation of race and gender through black African women's bodies: A postcolonial and feminist analysis.
Research Supervisor: Dr. Emma Kowal
Centre: Centre for Health & Society
What were you doing before you became a student at the Melbourne School of Population Health?
I was an undergraduate studying at Denison University, Ohio, USA, majoring in Sociology/Anthropology, with a minor in Biology.
What made you apply for your course?
I was interested in a Master's degree that was primarily focused around coursework in Medical Anthropology and the program at the University of Melbourne matched my interests perfectly. Although I have a specific interest in anthropology, the Master of Social Health by Coursework allowed me to take subjects in Public Health, Development Studies, Ethics, Policy and other areas outside of anthropology that are also relevant to my course of study and equally interesting to me. I absolutely loved the diversity of the program, and the university's excellent reputation as well as its strong affiliation with notable health institutions in the region made it my top choice.
What makes the Melbourne School of Population Health a great place to study?
The School of Population Health is a great place to study because it encompasses such a wide range of population health interests, from Health Economics, to Epidemiology, as well as Indigenous and International Health among many others. I am constantly meeting people who are studying something completely different from me, yet we all share a common interest in human health. The school also offers great seminars and lectures throughout the year. With my qualification, I hope to build a career in International Health and Development in my home country Kenya.
Any advice for new students?
I would advise new students to get to know the lecturers in their department of study. They are an incredible resource and can assist you not only in your coursework, but also in building a network within and outside the university that will be useful in any research or career plans you may develop along the way.
*Research project contributes to 25% of Master of Social Health