I am Sharmin Akter, a citizen of Bangladesh, with a passion for advancing public health.

I graduated with a
Bachelor of Dental Surgery (BDS) in 2017 from Bangladesh Medical & Dental College in Dhaka, where I achieved
a solid academic standing. My journey in dentistry provided me with a comprehensive understanding of clinical
procedures and patient care, which ignited my desire to broaden my impact by moving towards public health.
Throughout my academic career, I have been deeply committed to excellence, as seen in my achievement of
consistent academic performance, and my determination to pursue higher studies in the field of public health.

Following my graduation, I undertook a Postgraduate Training (PGT) in Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery in 2019,
which further refined my skills and knowledge. During this period, I had the opportunity to engage in clinical
research and gain hands-on experience that heightened my interest in tackling public health challenges on a
larger scale. Despite taking a gap year, from December 2017 to 2018, primarily focused on professional
development and preparing for my internship, I was constantly driven by the urge to contribute more
significantly to health care.

My professional journey began immediately after completing my internship in 2019, when I joined DenTrust
Laser Dental and Implant Center as a dentist. This role allowed me to develop practical, real-world skills in
diagnosing and treating various dental conditions, managing patient care, and implementing preventive
strategies. In my current position, I oversee treatment plans, conduct routine dental examinations, and provide
personalized care to patients. However, the more I practiced, the more I recognized that public health challenges
such as infectious diseases, malnutrition, and the rising prevalence of non-communicable diseases (NCDs)
require a broader, system-level approach that combines clinical expertise with policy development, research, and
community engagement. This realization strongly motivated my decision to transition into public health.

The professional experiences I have gathered, combined with my clinical expertise, have shaped my interest in
pursuing the Master of Public Health (MPH). This program will enable me to transition from clinical practice to
addressing population health issues, ultimately supporting my ambition to contribute significantly to the public
health landscape in Bangladesh.

Beyond my professional life, I have always been passionate about community engagement and wellness. I
actively volunteer in local health initiatives, particularly those focused on dental health education and
prevention. I believe that the integration of health education into communities can play a crucial role in
preventing diseases. In my free time, I also enjoy exploring global health issues, staying informed about new
health trends, and contributing to health-related workshops that aim to raise awareness in underserved areas.

My decision to pursue an MPH is motivated by my desire to make a greater impact in the field of public health.
During my clinical career, I began recognizing the limitations of addressing health issues solely through direct
patient care. I became increasingly aware of the systemic factors influencing health outcomes and the
importance of evidence-based strategies in managing public health challenges. My academic background,
coupled with my professional experience, has led me to the conclusion that further education in public health
will equip me with the knowledge necessary to address these challenges effectively.

The MPH program’s emphasis on epidemiology, policy analysis, and health promotion aligns perfectly with my
previous academic training and current professional work. I am eager to build on my understanding of health
systems, develop critical research skills, and learn how to implement large-scale public health interventions. This
course will be instrumental in enhancing my ability to contribute to health policies that address the pressing
health challenges of Bangladesh.
Upon completion of the MPH program, I plan to return to Bangladesh and work in prestigious institutions such as
the International Centre for Diarrhoeal Disease Research, Bangladesh (ICDDR,B) and BRAC, the world’s largest
NGO. At these organizations, I hope to be involved in research, policy development, and large-scale health
intervention programs focused on improving health outcomes for underserved populations. My immediate goal
is to contribute to public health strategies, focusing on infectious disease prevention, maternal and child health,
and health equity. Long-term, I envision myself in a leadership role, where I can influence national health policies
and collaborate on global health initiatives, particularly through partnerships with international health
organizations such as the WHO and UNICEF.

The MSc in Health Promotion and Public Health at Ulster University is uniquely suited to my career aspirations.
The program’s focus on evidence-based strategies, health promotion, and the challenges of health inequalities
will provide me with the tools I need to address complex public health issues in Bangladesh. Through modules
like epidemiology, biostatistics, and health policy, I will acquire the knowledge necessary to design and
implement effective public health interventions.

I am drawn to Ulster’s focus on community health initiatives and work-based learning, which will allow me to
apply theoretical knowledge to real-world problems. I am confident that the practical experience and advanced
skills I gain from this program will empower me to create data-driven policies and interventions that can improve
healthcare accessibility, particularly in rural areas of Bangladesh.

The UK offers a world-renowned education system with a strong emphasis on public health, evidenced by its
extensive research and collaboration with global health organizations. UK universities, including Ulster University,
provide rigorous academic training combined with practical learning opportunities that are vital for tackling real-
world public health challenges. Additionally, the multicultural society in the UK will expose me to diverse
perspectives and global health practices, enriching my understanding of public health strategies.

The standard of education in the UK, particularly in public health, is unmatched. With programs that emphasize
practical learning and research, the UK is an ideal environment for honing the skills necessary to become an
effective public health leader. Furthermore, the opportunity to study in an international setting will broaden my
horizons and enable me to contribute meaningfully to the global public health community.

Ulster University stands out as the ideal institution for my MPH studies because of its progressive curriculum,
diverse student body, and strong emphasis on practical learning. The university’s commitment to public health
education, particularly through initiatives like the CHOICE program (Challenging Health Outcomes – Integrating
Care Environments), aligns with my own goals of addressing health inequalities. Ulster’s focus on work-based
learning and community health initiatives will allow me to gain hands-on experience and implement the
knowledge I acquire in real-world settings. Furthermore, the university’s strong track record of employability and
its connection with various public health organizations provide a solid foundation for launching my career in the
field.

The MPH program at Ulster University is the perfect fit for my academic and professional aspirations. By gaining
specialized knowledge and practical skills in public health, I will be well-equipped to address the public health
challenges facing Bangladesh. I am excited about the opportunity to contribute to improving healthcare systems,
policies, and outcomes in my home country and to collaborate with international health institutions. I am
confident that completing this program will empower me to make a lasting impact on global and national public
health initiatives.