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Yordanos
Student
Arlington, Texas
1
Question
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Would studying Global Health help me work at the UN?
I'm interested in both medicine and global affairs, and my dream is to work at the UN. Is that possible? #international-affairs #global-health
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barbara k
Sr. Director
20
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McLean, Virginia
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barbara’s Answer
A degree in public health and some experience can be a great asset to work at a UN organization or an international organization such as the World Bank. Start by researching schools that offer degrees such as Masters' in Public Health with an international component, or look for joint MPH and International affairs programs. If you can define a bit more what aspect you are interested in, that would also help. Research people who are doing work in that area and reach out to them. This is such an important topic!
Todd Kushner
CISA Visiting Professor | Foreign Policy| Writer/Editor | International Economic Affairs
10
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Washington
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Todd’s Answer
With that background, the WHO might offer the best possibilities within the UN system. You probably need to speak another UN language other than English. Go to the careers section of the UN website and see how your qualifications match. WHO might have its own site as well.
World health Organization and United Nations have many opportunities for public health professionals. Before you could start working there, it would be helpful to get an international exposure of working with public health agencies such as WHO, UNICEF, CDC or NGOs. Internships are great option for getting such experience without professional obligations and much flexibility. Many organizations even pay moderate compensations for short term assignments, fellowships or field work research. Search for such opportunities online and apply. Good luck. :)
Chetan
You can also consider working for Medicine sans frontier as intern/fellow/professional. It will employ your medicine knowledge as well as provide experience working in global health program management. Knowledge of French and/or German would be an asset.
Chetan