McKenna

Master of Public Health

I’ve found my community at Imperial.
McKenna standing on a rooftop terrace in front of buildings around South Kensington campus, wearing a grey knit short-sleeved top and a silver necklace

After majoring in Health, Society and Policy for her undergraduate degree at the University of Utah, McKenna from the US knew she wanted to maintain her academic momentum and get a Master of Public Health. She shares why Imperial’s tailored Master’s course was a great fit for her and how her experience here has made her a more passionate, resilient and empathetic global citizen. 

Why Imperial?

I applied to Imperial College London because I was impressed by the university’s highly regarded reputation and ranking, its considerable international student population, and its location in the heart of London. I was really looking for a course that would combine key public health concepts with analytic skills and research opportunities. Imperial’s Master of Public Health does exactly that, so it was a great fit for me. I was also excited by the opportunity to tailor some of my studies to match my interests and career goals through the selection of a specialised stream. 

Doing a Master’s at Imperial 

Like at the start of most new experiences, beginning my course was a bit daunting at first, with the most challenging parts being adjusting to the learning and teaching styles, along with balancing coursework with my social and personal life. But Imperial offers lots of welcome events that helped me quickly familiarise myself with the resources, campus and people in my course, making the transition so much easier. I’ve found my community at Imperial with my amazing coursemates, who have made my time at Imperial such an enjoyable and rewarding experience. 

Studying at Imperial has not only given me the technical skills and knowledge to build a successful career in Public Health, but also has provided the framework for amazing experiences that have made me a more passionate, resilient and empathetic global citizen. 

McKenna standing next to the Imperial logo by the stairs leading to South Kensington Campus main entrance
McKenna standing in front of big standing letters spelling #WHO75

McKenna at the World Health Organization headquarters in Geneva on a trip organised by Imperial’s School of Public Health. She toured the facility and listened to speakers present on pressing public health issues.

McKenna at the WHO headquarters in Geneva on a trip organised by Imperial’s School of Public Health. She toured the facility and listened to speakers present on pressing public health issues.

Careers support from day one

Imperial’s Careers Service has been really helpful as I’ve updated my CV for job applications. Their training and workshops are useful for helping develop the skills needed to successfully find employment and the one-on-one careers discussions with staff have supported me with relevant, individual advice. 
McKenna, Master of Public Health
McKenna standing by the River Thames in London with Big Ben in the background

By the River Thames in London, with Westminster Bridge, Big Ben and the Houses of Parliament.

By the River Thames in London, with Westminster Bridge, Big Ben and the Houses of Parliament.

McKenna standing in Kensington Gardens with a line of green trees behind her

In Kensington Gardens, London.

In Kensington Gardens, London.

McKenna standing in Trafalgar Square, with the National Gallery behind her.

Trafalgar Square and the National Gallery in London.

Trafalgar Square and the National Gallery in London.

McKenna standing outdoors in front of some mountains covered in fog

On a hiking trip in the Lake District with the Fellwanderers Society.

On a hiking trip in the Lake District with the Fellwanderers Society.

Living in London

I live in GradPad Wood Lane Studios which is right on White City Campus, making it super convenient for my work and study. Living here has also been such a great way to meet other postgrad students who are in the same building. 

Being in the White City area, I’m really close to Westfield which is a big shopping centre with great options for shopping and food. Little Wormwood Scrubs is a nice little park within walking distance of my accommodation and I also spend a decent amount of time in the Notting Hill and Holland Park area since there's so much to do there and it's only a short tube ride away. 

My favourite thing about living in London is how lively it is! The city is beautiful and with so much history, culture, food, and entertainment, there’s so many amazing ways to spend free time. 

I also joined the Fellwanderers Society at Imperial this year which gave me the opportunity to meet people outside of my course with similar hobbies and to be able to see more of the UK outside of London through the organised hiking trips. 

I’ve loved being able to visit many of the art museums, theatres, markets, parks, and palaces in London. It's also a great place to be based if you want to explore other parts of the UK and Europe! 

Imperial's central location puts you at the heart of the world's most exciting city.

If you’re thinking about applying to Imperial, you absolutely should! Imperial is such a great university with amazing opportunities located in such a beautiful and lively city, making it an experience that cannot be matched. 
McKenna, Master of Public Health
McKenna standing on a picturesque road in London, with old buildings in the background

If you’re thinking about applying to Imperial, you absolutely should! Imperial is such a great university with amazing opportunities located in such a beautiful and lively city, making it an experience that cannot be matched. 
McKenna, Master of Public Health
McKenna standing on a picturesque road in London, with old buildings in the background

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