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What kinds of careers exist for those passionate about both medicine and politics/law?

Hi! I am a current junior with a passion for law and medicine and am working towards an international career that involves advocacy and research. Unlike the process of becoming a doctor, the pathway to my dream profession is not as clearly defined. Now that I'm halfway through my college journey, I would love some advice because I have no idea what kinds of places would be looking to employ a student with an International Relations and Global Health double major. I would love to hear more about careers that are involved in both politics and healthcare with an emphasis on how one might get there. How much schooling would one of these careers usually require? Would you recommend attending graduate school, and if so, should it be for both a medical degree and a law degree (MD/JD)? Or would a Masters in Public Health (MPH) suffice for these career fields? What kinds of internships or research opportunities might you have heard of for those with my similar interests? Thanks in advice for the life-changing insight! #medicine #law #politics #graduate-school #law-school #medical-practice #international #globalization

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Ian’s Answer

Hi Jennifer! You career goals are very noble and I am happy to offer my insight and wisdom. Briefly, I coach young adults and career changers on this, and other issues pertaining to career, education, and life value. To answer your question, I absolutely recommend grad school. Emory is not only a great school, but they have a direct relationship with the Center for Disease Control. I say an MPH is a good direction. Check for dual degree opportunities because Emory has a JD/MPH program. At this level, you are qualified to lead organizations, conduct research, practice law in an area connected to public health, and more. Don't limit yourself to Atlanta, there may be similar programs elsewhere that may peek your interest. The major thing is to do your due diligence, e.g. google, call, email the people and programs that align with your goals. Find professors and scholars that are engaged in research similar to your own interests. Regarding internships and job prospects, there is the CDC, Unicef, the National Institute of Health, GA Department of Public Health, the National Health Law Program, World Health Organization, the World Bank, and more. If you have any questions, don't hesitate to reach out.

Ian recommends the following next steps:

Do your homework. Take the time to search for programs that resonate with your calling. This will take weeks, not hours. Be mindful of online programs, for-profit schools, and accreditation. Also look at the reviews of the schools and organizations. Compare what the school offers to what your interests are and what the mission of your chosen career/company and organization.
Call and email the places listed as your top choices or even potential options. Make a list of questions about your contacts' research as well as what your options are regarding your goals. Listen intently.
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Jon’s Answer

Hi Jennifer,


What a great a background and interest area you have. I recently held a position in international government relations for a large healthcare organization before transitioning into executive search. Some things to consider:

-blending international relations and global health will likely take you to look at opportunities in DC, NYC, and San Francisco. In DC, you will discover the world of global development (e.g. USAID contracting/implementation). There are many organizations that do this work. A great resource is Devex.com

-There are also consulting opportunities in this space such as Dalberg, McKinsey, Booz Allen, etc.

-Another area to consider is working for a large healthcare organization in their government affairs/health policy department.

-In terms of graduate studies, I would consider grad school. It sounds like you are interested in a fairly specific area. For the most part, MPH degrees are going to be highly technical (think epidemiology). There are MS, MA, and MBA degrees that will focus on international affairs, business, and/or social impact with a global health angle. I believe Northwestern has a new MS Global Health program that is highly interdisciplinary. Others of course would be Hopkins SAIS, GW, Columbia, UT Austin, etc in their public affairs programs where you can concentrate in global health.

-Something else which requires a bit of effort but can often prove helpful is reaching out to folks who have the sort of job/experience you would be interested in potentially having to some degree. If they are the mindset of lift as they rise, they will respond to a kind note asking them to spend some time with you discussing their background and what advice they might have for someone looking to get into the field


Hope this is helpful. Happy to discuss more.
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