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Student Spotlight; Dolma Tsering, MPH '24 (Health Policy)

April 20, 2023

Why did you choose the Yale School of Public Health?

I chose to attend Yale School of Public Health because of the opportunity the program offers to individualize my course of study through the interdisciplinary core curriculum. The school’s personalized sequences of courses within each program, combined with the option to specialize in areas through sub-concentrations, allows for a tailored learning experience aligned with my academic interests and career goals. Additionally, I have the unparalleled opportunity to immerse myself in a community of faculty and students that is collaborative. Here at YSPH, I have just as much to learn from my professors and peers as I do from my coursework.

What were you doing before enrolling at YSPH?

Prior to joining YSPH, I was working at Tufts Medical Center’s Center for Health Equity Research. Over the course of my two years there, I got a deeper understanding of processes and policies that reduce health disparities. I worked on over 10 projects addressing racial and ethnic disparities in health care. I explored topics of health equity, social determinants of health, and the patient experience. My time there confirmed my desire to pursue a graduate degree that would help me make a difference through policy design and development aimed at reducing health disparities and improving access to high-quality and affordable health care services.

I love YSPH’s academic program because of its comprehensive curriculum that covers a wide range of topics in public health such as epidemiology, social justice, global health, and health policy.

Dolma Tsering, MPH '24 (Health Policy)

What are your favorite aspects of the YSPH academic program?

I love YSPH’s academic program because of its comprehensive curriculum that covers a wide range of topics in public health such as epidemiology, social justice, global health, and health policy. Moreover, as a part of the larger Yale community, I have the added benefit being able to enroll in courses at other schools, such as the School of Management, Jackson School of Global Affairs, and the Law School. YSPH’s cross-disciplinary approach empowers me to gain a comprehensive understanding of public health issues and effectively address complex challenges by fostering innovative solutions.

What was your most impactful experience outside of class?

Through my student consultant work for a local community organization, I am directly applying the knowledge gained from my MPH coursework to a real-world project. I am conducting a literature review on early interventions that promote resilience in children and families, monitoring relevant federal legislation, and producing a white paper to inform adjustments to the programmatic design of an expanding center. This work continues to be incredibly rewarding, as I engage with community members and stakeholders to develop public health interventions and contribute to my local community.

Do you have a favorite Yale place or New Haven food?

I love studying at the Sterling Memorial Library, and after having tried many pizza spots here in New Haven, Zeneli is my favorite!

What do you hope to do after graduation?

After graduation, my goal is to work on healthcare reform projects that aim to eliminate barriers for immigrants, refugees, and migrants while promoting health equity for all. I am committed to building a just and equitable healthcare system that serves all communities, regardless of race, gender, socioeconomic status, or citizenship.

Submitted by Fran Fried on April 17, 2023