What were your reasons for taking on a postgraduate degree?
I am a pharmacist with a strong passion for clinical research. Since my second year at university, I have had the chance to engage in three projects under the supervision of Dr. Ha Thi Vo, Deputy Head of Pharmacy Department at Nguyen Tri Phuong Hospital, Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam where I did my internship. Dr. Ha serves as both a mentor and an inspiration to me due to her unwavering commitment to advancing clinical pharmacy practice and scientific research in Vietnam. My projects have focused on the pivotal role of clinical pharmacists in enhancing public health, particularly in areas such as medication safety, chronic diseases, and antimicrobial resistance. The projects I have participated in have one thing in common, clinical data analyses. I realised that statistical skills are very important and in order for me to work on projects related to public health and medical research I need to further develop these skills. Therefore, I decided to take on a postgraduate degree related to medical statistics.
How did you make the decision to study at Strathclyde?
To the best of my knowledge, the UK holds a significant place in the history and development of modern statistics. Overall, the UK’s rich history and tradition in statistics have played a crucial role in shaping the discipline and its applications worldwide. Therefore, I chose to pursue my studies in Medical Statistics under the international standard of the UK. Thanks to a workshop held on March 13th, 2023, organised by the British Council in Vietnam, I had the opportunity to listen to an engaging presentation by Jennifer Gazzard (International Development Manager, Faculty of Engineering, University of Strathclyde). Jennifer introduced me to the University of Strathclyde and I learnt that it stands out as a leading international institution known for its technological advancements and commitment to social progress. She also provided insights into life in Glasgow, Scotland and the UK. Following this, I discovered that Strathclyde offers a MSc in Applied Statistics in Health Sciences programme, which is a great opportunity for me to reach my career goals. After taking the IELTS test at the British Council in Vietnam, I received an email from British Council introduced the Scholarship for Women in STEM 2023/24, which included the programme that I was looking forward to applying for. I am immensely grateful for this great opportunity!
What do you like about your course and Strathclyde?
Beyond academics, Strathclyde offers a plethora of extracurricular activities such as welcome week, Christmas events, fitness classes, swimming sessions and wellbeing modules. These activities have provided me with opportunities to form new friendships with students from various countries and to immerse myself in diverse cultures from around the world. Furthermore, through the British Council Scholarship for Women in STEM, I am part of a close-knit group of fellow scholarship recipients. We not only go to university together but also engage in various university activities together. Our mentor, Jennifer, has supported us a lot during our move from our home countries and since our arrival in the UK.
What specialist knowledge/professional skills have you developed whilst studying the course?
The learning environment at Strathclyde is truly wonderful, and I am receiving the education that I expected. I am cultivating a robust set of specialist skills and professional knowledge in the realm of statistics. Delving into modern statistical methods, I am honing my ability to analyse and visualise real-life datasets, preparing me to apply these techniques effectively in professional medical contexts. Proficiency in statistical software packages such as R, SAS, and SPSS equips me with the tools necessary for diverse applications in pharmaceutical industry and medical research. Moreover, I am developing a keen aptitude for interpreting the outcomes of statistical tests and data analyses, enabling me to communicate my findings to varied audiences, who are non-statisticians and health professionals. Within the program modules I am acquiring comprehensive expertise that will empower me to navigate the complexities of statistical inquiry and make meaningful contributions in my medical field. I am thoroughly enjoying my academic journey here at Strathclyde!
What are your ambitions for the future and how do you think your time at Strathclyde will help you achieve your goals?
I aspire to pursue a career in clinical pharmacy and medical research. If I have the opportunity to further my studies, I aim to enrol in a PhD program that enables me to explore research topics related to pharmacy practice, patient care, drug therapy, and clinical outcomes in greater depth. Otherwise, I will return to my home country and leverage the knowledge and skills that I have acquired to continue my career as a clinical pharmacist. In this capacity, I can provide direct patient care, offer medication counselling to patients, and collaborate with the healthcare teams to optimise therapy outcomes. As a pharmacist, I am keen to participate in clinical research endeavours in my country, where I can contribute to address healthcare challenges, enhance treatment protocols, and improve patient medication safety within Vietnamese healthcare settings. Irrespective of the chosen path, my career goal remains consistent: to enhance my academic research pursuits with hands-on patient care experiences. By integrating research findings into clinical practice, I aim to promote evidence-based decision-making and elevate the quality of patient care in Vietnam.
How have you found your time living in Glasgow and what's your favourite thing about the city?
Living in Glasgow has been an incredibly rewarding experience in my life, largely due to the warm and friendly nature of the people. Since my arrival, I have been struck by the genuine sense of belonging fostered by the people of this city. What sets Glasgow apart is the way its people extend their warmth and hospitality to everyone, regardless of background or circumstance. Each interaction feels like a heartfelt connection with another member of Glasgow’s extended family. What’s remarkable is the authenticity of these encounters; Glaswegians possess an innate ability to be themselves, embracing diversity and celebrating individuality in all its forms. Although I have only been here for just over five months now, I have found friendship, community, and a sense of home that will forever hold a special place in my heart.
What would you say to anyone thinking of coming to study in Glasgow at Strathclyde?
To anyone considering studying in Glasgow at Strathclyde, I wholeheartedly encourage you to take the opportunity. The learning environment at Strathclyde is truly exceptional, providing an education that aligns perfectly with your aspirations and ambitions. What’s particularly remarkable is the university’s commitment to addressing the gender gap in STEM fields through various scholarships aimed at supporting women pursuing studies and research in STEM careers. Here, you will not only gain valuable knowledge but also engage in a vibrant and enriching campus life through many exciting extracurricular activities at Strath Union. There’s a perfect balance between learning and leisure, offering ample opportunities for personal growth, making friendships, and accumulating life experiences in Glasgow. As international students, we are embarking on a journey filled with endless possibilities that celebrates curiosity, innovation, and diversity, and I have no doubt that every moment spent here will be cherished. In the words of Louis Pasteur, “Science knows no country. Science is simply common sense at its best.” So, let us embark on this journey together, embracing the transformative power of education and seizing every opportunity to make our mark on the world.