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Head of finance and strategy for a major health plan - Meet Sham Firdausi

December 06, 2023

EMPH Spotlight: Sham Firdausi ’25

Why did you choose to attend the Yale School of Public Health’s Executive MPH Program?

My passion for public health leadership and management led me to the Yale School of Public Health’s Executive MPH Program. I was drawn to its high-quality education, experienced faculty, and supportive alumni network. The program also offers a flexible schedule that fits my busy life as a working professional and a parent. I am excited to learn from one of the best institutions in the world and to join a community of public health leaders who are making a difference in their fields. The Executive MPH program will help me achieve my goals and improve the health and well-being of my community and beyond.

What is your current occupation?

I am currently the head of finance and strategy for one of the largest health plans in the country, with a revenue of $15 billion. The health plan has multiple products such as Medicaid, Medicare, and Marketplace, with over 2 million members.

What are your favorite aspects of the Executive MPH Program?

The in-person sessions and the guest speakers who come to speak with us are a great addition to this program.

How do you balance working full-time with the demands of the program?

Time management is key. Also, having a good support system is very important.

How do you hope to apply the training and education you receive through the EMPH program to your future endeavors?

The EMPH program will help me grow as a public health leader. I want to learn from the program’s excellent curriculum, faculty, and alumni. I look forward to joining the Yale community and collaborating with other public health professionals. I also want to use the evidence-based methods and tools from the program to improve public health research and practice. Lastly, I want to share my experience and insights from the program with future public health leaders.

Would you recommend the Executive MPH program to others, and why?

I would most definitely recommend the Executive MPH program. The program has many advantages; it offers a top-notch education from one of the best public health schools in the world, and a flexible and convenient schedule. Also, you are exposed to a supportive community of faculty, alumni, and peers who share your passion and vision for public health. The Executive MPH program is a great option for anyone who wants to advance their career in public health leadership and management, and to make a positive difference in the health and well-being of their community and beyond.

Submitted by Sabrina Lacerda Naia dos Santos on December 06, 2023