“My experience (during the MPH) developing project plans is incredibly relevant to my work at the Australian Centre for the Prevention of Cervical Cancer (ACPCC) and project planning and management, something we learnt in detail during the MPH, is a major part of my work with the Lung Cancer team at the University of Melbourne.”
Mikayla Wolfe, driven by a passion for social justice and women's health, found her calling in pursuing a Master of Public Health (MPH). She now works as a Research Assistant at the University of Melbourne’s Centre for Health Policy as well as Australian Centre for the Prevention of Cervical Cancer (ACPCC) where she actively applies her wealth of knowledge and experience.
-
Why did you decide to study at the University of Melbourne?
Before beginning my MPH in 2022, I was working at a hospital on the Mornington Peninsula within their COVID-19 management team for the first six months of 2021. It was during this gap year I noticed I had developed a keen interest in society and health- social problems, politics, social justice, women’s health, human rights, sexual and reproductive health. I found myself reading the news every morning and watching it every evening. During my bachelor’s, I completed a couple of public health units and found they were the ones that sparked my interest. I applied for an MPH at a range of different universities midway through 2021 but found the MPH at Melbourne to be the most diverse and flexible. I liked that students could specialise in particular areas. It was these characteristics that saw me accept the University of Melbourne's offer to study an MPH.
-
What do you like most about your studies at the University of Melbourne?
Reflecting on my MPH experience, I would have to say I enjoyed the research capstone unit the most. Despite intense imposter syndrome and feelings of complete overwhelm at some points, it was in this unit I learned what I was capable of, and how hard I could work. I also discovered the benefit of collaborative learning and support. I conducted qualitative research for the first time, under the guidance of three amazing supervisors, and with the backing of an entire research team, and I developed so many incredible and valuable new skills. Skills that I use now in my work and will continue to hone and build upon in years to come.
-
What have been the best things about studying the Master of Public Health at the University of Melbourne?
Some of the best things about studying at the University of Melbourne are the relationships, networks, and connections you develop as a student. I would not be where I am today without the continual support and guidance of my supervisors, the magnificent team of researchers I worked alongside, and my fellow MPH students.
-
What kinds of work integrated learning, practical experience or academic enrichment activities did you participate in your degree, and how did they impact your development?
As discussed above, I completed a research capstone project and conducted qualitative research. This provided rich opportunities for skill development and networking and has inspired me to consider a PhD in the field of cervical cancer qualitative research.
-
What goals did you set yourself before starting the course, and have you achieved these?
In choosing this course, I wanted to build my connections and set myself on a career pathway I was interested in and excited about. I began the course with an open mind to ensure I was able to take full advantage of any opportunities that came my way.
I am incredibly proud of the connections I have made throughout my course, and the standard to which I have completed my work. I hope to maintain and build upon this standard as I advance into my future career.
-
Where are you currently working and what is your position title/role?
I currently hold two roles:
A Research Assistant at the University of Melbourne within the Centre for Health Policy. I am working with the Lung Cancer research team on a casual basis, helping with events planning and management, as well as potential health program and guideline development.
A Research and Administrative Assistant at the Australian Centre for the Prevention of Cervical Cancer (ACPCC), as part of the Communications and Government Relations team. My major role is working on a National Campaign to increase awareness and knowledge of self-collection cervical screening for healthcare professionals and general practitioners.
The units within the MPH prepared me well for both roles. For example, my experience developing project plans is incredibly relevant to my work at ACPCC, and project planning and management, something we learnt in detail during the MPH, is a major part of my work with the Lung Cancer team at the University of Melbourne.
-
What advice do you have for future and current students who are interested in studying this course and pursuing a similar career?
Be open to new opportunities. Take the time to develop relationships and connections with fellow students, as well as those in your teaching and/or supervisory teams.
-
What inspires you?
I will answer this by saying I find inspiration in many different things and people around me.