This post is for the freshers who plan to aspire to a career in public health or who are still confused about choosing the right career path for themselves.

Decision making

After graduation students suffer from indecision about which career path to choose and face extreme peer pressures on this issue. But the fact is, the students will only experience their journey not their peers. Thus, career-related decisions should be taken wisely. For easing this decision-making process, a student might follow some necessary steps.

1. Proper communication:

Discussing with seniors working in this field and learning about their journey and the pros and cons as well. This communication skill is mandatory for becoming successful in the public health arena.

2. Using the internet effectively:  

Google, YouTube, and Facebook for knowing more about this career option. 

3. Learning about career options: 

There are two types of employment opportunities in public health, one is the program-based job and another one is the research-based job and they have a different aspect of work responsibilities. It’s important to know the difference between these two. 

4. Enrolling in online courses:

Many online courses are available in Coursera, edx, udemy or some other research organizations. YouTube is a good source of information about how to apply for free courses in Coursera. It’s better to complete some online interactive classes first and then visiting Coursera or other courses for the same topic.

Preparations for applying in job: 

This is the most challenging part. A public health enthusiast must be skilled enough and have the following preparations to avail a job in public health: 

1.Writing a nice professional CV, 

2. Write effective and professional emails, 

3. Volunteering or internship in any national or international NGOs

4.Opening a LinkedIn account and searching for jobs there, 

5. Increasing communication skills

6. Preparing a list of desired organizations and following their websites for updates, 

7. Expressing enthusiasm and showing proper interest to the recruiters through a professional cover letter

8. Preparing a personal website (can be made through google without knowing any programming) 

9. Learning basic statistical software like SPSS or STATA and some basic programing language like python to enhance the analytical skill.

Pursuing higher study

Having an MPH degree is always an added advantage almost everywhere. It’s good to have some work experience before starting the MPH. 

Last but not the least, a public health enthusiast should always cautious about investing her time and work hard. She should never quit fighting for her career. Consistency and determination are the key for success in public health.

-Dr. Zarin Tasnim Efa

Edited by:
Dr. Nafis Rahman
Associate, BaSoWPH