Batool Behnam

MPH
Undergraduate Asian University for Women, Bangladesh (BS)
Graduating Class 2024

Biography

Why did you choose the Brown University School of Public Health?

I picked Brown School of Public Health because of its community, resources, and flexibility in choosing concentrations, and research method tracks.

What makes Brown's program different from other programs you considered?

Personally, I would say two things. First, I really value relationships with faculty members and their support and availability for students, which the School of Public Health has a great support system for. Second, the freedom to be a qualitative or quantitative or mixed method research track. This is so important for me because I am interested in numbers and people’s stories and reasons behind those numbers. At Brown School of Public Health, I have the opportunity to gain both skills.

What do you enjoy most about your program?

I enjoy the diversity in my cohort in terms of experience, academic background and future work we will do. I enjoy our discussions and exchanging of ideas about public health. Also, I enjoy our friendship and bond we have built.

What is your academic area of interest and why?

I am a global health concentration with a mixed method research track. I chose global health because of the interconnectedness of our world today and also, to gain cultural competencies, skills to design practical interventions and implementations for developing countries to reduce health inequalities and disparities. Also, I chose the qualitative research track, because to tell people’s health stories along with the numbers to make a greater impact in the sector.

What are your postgraduate goals/plans?

My goal is to be engaged in global mental health work with international NGOs. I consider myself a global citizen and want to have my contribution to reduce health inequalities among communities, through health education and capacity building.

Why Providence?

As an international student and being in the US for the first time, it is great to start living in a small city which is not overwhelming to explore. Also, the location is great for exploring bigger cities like Boston and New York City. As an international student, there are a lot of challenges to overcome in a new country. It is great to start with a small city/state.

What advice would you give to a prospective applicant?

In my opinion, as an international student, living away from home, feeling a sense of community, belonging and inclusion is as important as the quality of education and education system to thrive in your education and professional journey, Brown School of Public Health fills that gap and a place for students to thrive in any aspect of life as a student.