Now that graduation is behind her, we had the opportunity to catch up with one of IMU’s recent graduates in Master of Science in Public Health, Jasmin binti Mohamed Ariff, to reflect on her journey at the university. She is a pharmacist by profession and currently works in the Planning Division at the Ministry of Health headquarters in Putrajaya.
In this interview, she shares her experiences and the valuable lessons she learned.
Why I Joined IMU?
Completing my master’s in public health has been a transformative journey! I chose IMU for its comprehensive curriculum, experienced faculty, and flexible hours that allowed me to balance being both a student and a mother.
Through this programme, I gained a solid foundation in public health theory and practical skills, including tools to analyse complex health data, empowering me to tackle real-world challenges effectively. This experience has strengthened my commitment to improving public health systems and addressing issues affecting community well-being, from disease prevention to environmental health.
My Experience at IMU
My one-year experience at IMU was one of the best years of my life! Returning to student life after 14 years in the Ministry of Health (MOH) was initially challenging, but the IMU faculty members made my transition from a career-focused role to academic learning and research smooth and well-guided. The teaching and guidance from encouraging lecturers helped me grow personally and professionally.
Reflecting on my time at IMU, one of my favourite memories was collaborating with MBA students on an assignment to create a business model for a health centre using relevant tools. This interaction allowed me to connect with a wider network of peers, and the experience was both fun and enriching.
Additionally, I was deeply impressed by the field visits organised by faculty and lecturers. These experiences were eye-opening and provided valuable, hands-on insight into public health practices both in Malaysia and around the world
My Future Plans
Looking forward, I plan to apply what I’ve learned by working in public health practice and health policy planning, contributing to policies and programmes that strengthen health systems and improve population health outcomes. My goal is to work alongside professionals in the field to ensure health equity and access to quality care.
In the long term, I hope to influence public health policy on a larger scale, combining research with actionable insights to create sustainable change.
Advice to Future Students
For those considering or currently pursuing a public health degree, I would say: embrace every learning opportunity, whether in class or through practical field experience. Public health is a critical and ever-evolving field, so being adaptable and proactive is essential. Don’t be afraid to ask questions, seek mentorship, and get involved in projects that challenge you.
This experience will not only build your knowledge but also strengthen the skills you need to make a meaningful difference in any field you pursue in the future, helping you create an impactful change within your organisation.
We would like to extend our appreciation to Jasmin for taking the time out of her busy schedule to participate in this interview.
