- Anna Prianka Cyril As a child, my dream was to become a doctor. Unfortunately, I couldn’t make this dream a reality, but this has not stopped me from pursuing a career in the healthcare industry. I am studying Master of Business Administration (MBA) in Health at UCL Global Business School for Health, UK. I wanted to contribute to the development of healthcare. My experience ranges from working at a tech start-up called Worxogo in Bengaluru to strategy consulting for both life science companies and healthcare. These experiences shaped my decision to choose an MBA in Health at UCL Global Business School for Health (UCL GBSH). I knew that an MBA would give me the skills I need to become a future healthcare leader. Another draw was that the UCL GBSH embraces global learning, and is looking for students from abroad who can share their experiences of healthcare solutions and problems from their home countries. Why I chose Engineering over medicine I studied hard to pursue medicine but missed the cut-off by a small percentage. I was devasted but my parents were supportive and after deliberation, I chose to pursue a career in biotechnology. However, upon graduation and between my final year thesis and two internships, I was convinced that lab and research work was not for me. I used my career experiences as a learning opportunity, and I had inspiring people along the way who shaped my views and made me into the person I am today. Chevening Shakti women's mentoring programme The Chevening Shakti women's mentoring programme aims to empower women in medicine with enhanced leadership skills. The programme offers mentoring workshops conducted by UCL GBSH students, aligned to the 2030 India-UK roadmap to strengthen the health systems of both countries. This programme was open to all GBSH and did not involve a formal application process. I stepped forward for this, alongside some of my other classmates, as I was keen to give back to those around me and pass on the knowledge I have gained throughout my education. The programme at UCL GBSH involves supporting medical leadership among women in India through virtual webinars. London - the city of love, friendship and new experiences I love living in London as it is a culturally diverse city. I have explored many museums, parks, and art galleries. My aunt, who lives in London, helped me settle in. I also had a ready list of available places to stay from a list recommended by UCL GBSH. My classmates at UCL GBSH have been wonderful, and now I have many friends from different parts of the world. One of the friendships I value the most is my friend Bee from Saudi Arabia. We have grown close, and I have learnt so much from her. I now enjoy Arabic coffee with chocolate regularly. I also have wonderful flatmates and we cook together. Also, as part of the MBA in Health at UCL GBSH, we can partake in a ‘global challenge’ where a group of students travel to either China, India, or Saudi Arabia. I was part of a group that went to India, and it was wonderful experiencing India from a different lens. We visited top hospitals, consulting firms, and international agencies such as the World Bank and World Health Organization (WHO). These experiences were truly eye-opening and insightful. The difference in teaching between India and the UK is quite evident. In India, students are trained to think analytically, with a lesser focus on exams and grades. However, in the UK, I learnt to think critically and consistently challenge ideas. The master’s course requires a lot of preparation before class and the assignments are very different, with a particular emphasis on academic writing. You also learn a lot from your peers and classmates with the diverse experiences they bring to the table. However, I do believe that my schooling and education in India did help me immensely, especially in developing my problem-solving and critical-thinking skills. How to apply at UCL GBSH The admission process was straightforward. I submitted an essay for my candidacy and reached out to students from the previous cohort to understand more about the course and life at the UCL GBSH. I didn’t use a counsellor for my application. Instead, I managed on my own, asking my colleagues and friends for input on my essay. I found the essay a very introspective experience – it gave me clarity on my short and long-term goals, as well as helping me think about how I could make a difference in healthcare. After submitting the essay, I was shortlisted for a virtual interview with a two-member panel. And shortly after this, I found out I had secured a place. I had to show my International English Language Testing System (IELTS) and Graduate Management Admission Test (GMAT) scores with a copy of my degree certificate, transcripts, and CV. The most important things to remember are to be yourself and that everyone’s journey is unique. I would suggest candidates to be authentic and talk about what they are passionate about. It truly makes a difference. (This letter is part of a series by The Indian Express where we bring to you the experiences of students at different foreign universities. From scholarships and loans to food and cultural experiences — students tell us how life is different in those countries and things they are learning other than academics)
