Norma Bulamu
What course are you doing?
The Master of Public Health (MPH)
What was your pathway to studying at the University of Melbourne?
I responded to an advertisement for scholarships from AusAID through the Ministry of Education in Uganda. I was shortlisted, interviewed and offered the scholarship. I was then asked to apply to at least two universities in Australia; I applied to the University of Melbourne as my first choice and the University of Sydney as my second. I was offered a place at the University of Melbourne and here I am.
Why did you choose to do your course at the University of Melbourne?
Pursuing a career in public health was my goal so as to obtain a broader perspective of health and be equipped to address the dynamic global health challenges. I chose the University of Melbourne because it offers the best MPH program in Australia.
How did you become aware of the Australian Development Scholarship?
The scholarships were advertised by the Ministry of Education and Sports in the local newspapers in Uganda.
How did the Australian Development Scholarship assist you in your studies?
The scholarship has assisted me a great deal; I would not be in position to afford the tuition fees and living expenses here in Australia if I did not have the scholarship. In addition, the IAP program run by the AusAID through the university was a great way for me to transition from the traditional learning system back home to the system here in Australia.
Can you recall a particularly interesting day/event during your course?
My course has been fascinating thus far with lots of new things to learn on a daily basis both in class and in the society. The free interaction between lecturers and students is very helpful for learning especially at masters’ level.
Describe for us your student life
I have not had any other commitments besides the course thus far. In the social arena, I have been able to find a church that I go to every Sunday; this is a lovely community with great people.
The AusAid student community at the university regularly organises excursions and social occasions, which are a great opportunity to socialise with fellow students. The Ugandan community in Melbourne also organises social events such as on the 9th October, which is Uganda’s independence day. This is a fantastic opportunity to meet fellow Ugandans living in Melbourne.
What do you plan to do upon completion of your course, and how will your course assist you?
I plan to pursue a career in health economics and economic evaluation under the big umbrella of public health. I hope to go back to Uganda and implement the knowledge I have acquired working directly with the government or indirectly through the non-government organisations.
