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Alumni Spotlight: Hipolite, MSc Global Health and Development
16 March 2023
We speak to Hipolite, MSc Global Health and Development Alumnus, to find out what he has been up to since graduating and how the programme helped him get there.
What is your fondest memory of your time at UCL?
During my time at UCL, first and foremost, I appreciated the support I received from both the IGH academic and administrative personnel, who provided very useful advice on my studies, especially on the complex modules I selected, career prospects, and even personal matters when necessary. I also loved the UCL learning approach, which consisted of lectures, seminars, and workshops that create听a supportive听environment for each student to pursue their academic curiosity, contribute to knowledge, express听opinions and share听experiences. UCL has provided grounds for me to make friends from all over the world who I hope will remain a part of my social and professional network for the rest of my life.
Please tell us a bit about the work you are doing now.
After completing my MSc and earning a distinction in my dissertation, I applied for a competitive internship position with the prestigious World Health Organization's SDG3 Global Action Plan Secretariat. After successfully passing their interview procedure, I was accepted into their internship programme, which would be held in Geneva, Switzerland. My primary role will be to use my technical, interpersonal, and intrapersonal skills to strengthen collaboration between the largest global health actors in order to accelerate progress towards the health-related Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) targets, particularly for the Low and Middle-Income Countries (LMICs) to reduce inefficiencies.
How did your UCL degree help you get to where you are now?
The MSc gave me the opportunity to study modules that span across multiple disciplines and have a great influence on global health outcomes. It has developed my project evaluation, health management and policy and guideline development skills, as well as advanced my research skills. On top of that, I have learnt both hard and soft skills that will make me an expert听in听global professional practice.
What have been your career highlights?
My career goal and dream is to improve听Primary Health Care, especially in LMICs, in order to attain听Universal Health Coverage. Studying for my MSc听has equipped me with听knowledge and skills in various health disciplines. These skills听will enable me to participate directly in the field by engaging with international health organizations and contributing my expertise in improving the healthcare infrastructure of LMICs. My听internship with the World Health Organization has provided a platform for me to fulfil my career goals of using my academic and technical expertise to reach and improve healthcare systems for LMICs.
What would be your advice for current students?
The MSc programme is quite intensive听and could be overwhelming, but it is entirely manageable. To be fruitful in your course, make the most of the teaching material and methodologies provided by the IGH faculty and complete all your assignments on time. Also, if you get stuck in your course, do not be afraid to seek guidance from the academic and administrative staff, as they are always available to guide and support you. Finally, take advantage of any networking and volunteering opportunities that come your way, without forgetting to cruise around the astonishing city of London.
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