Convocation Spotlight: Inara Shah, MPH with a GeC in Epidemiology and Applied biostatistics
9 June 2025
After working as a nurse in hospital settings, Inara Shah was drawn to a master’s in public health. “Population health spoke to me since health promotion is what keeps people from ending up in hospitals in the first place,” she says. Now, graduating with a master of public health specializing in epidemiology and applied biostatistics, her aim is to make health education accessible and promote equitable health-care opportunities for marginalized communities.
How did you stay motivated during your studies?
Family and friends were my biggest support as I entered into this new phase of life as the Canadian environment and the academics were both new to me. Campus resources helped me a lot to navigate life in university and the camaraderie on campus made me feel welcomed.
What was your go-to spot on campus?
I really liked spending time in the Sperber library while catching up on biostatistics assignments and getting a drink!
What activities did you do outside of your studies?
It was really encouraging for me to serve as a Graduate Students Association alternate member and then as GSA councilor. It provided me with the opportunity to engage with people from different departments, learn about the institution's strategic investments and new developments to foster excellence for graduate students.
What advice would you give to a student considering public health programs?
To anyone thinking of joining the School of Public Health and the ¾ÅÐãÖ±²¥ I would say you are making the best decision, it is all worth it with the knowledge you gain, friends and networks you make and the trajectory you get for your future life! Just hang in there and everything will make sense!