Worapon
Master of Public Health
I knew Imperial was the right place for me when I felt both academically challenged and personally supported at the same time.
After working as a Public Information Officer with the International Labour Organization in Bangkok, where he led strategic communications and awareness campaigns across Southeast Asia, Worapon’s journey to Imperial started with a simple goal: find a Master’s course where ambition, purpose and real‑world impact could come together. Find out how the course is pushing him academically, how he discovered his scholarship and how the Disability Advisory Service is supporting him to succeed at Imperial.
Why Imperial?
I decided to apply to Imperial because I was looking for a university that combined academic excellence with real-world impact. Imperial’s strong reputation in science and medicine, along with its global outlook, made it stand out. As someone working at the intersection of public health, data and policy, I was looking for a Master’s course that was both rigorous and practical.
Imperial’s strong reputation in science and medicine, along with its global outlook, made it stand out.
I attended a virtual information session during the application process where I heard directly from staff and current students, which reassured me that the course would strengthen both my analytical skills and applied public health competencies. The session clarified module structures, research opportunities and academic expectations, making the course feel structured yet flexible.
Getting a scholarship
The scholarship application process was clear and structured, with detailed guidance on eligibility criteria and required documents.
I was incredibly honoured to receive the School of Public Health’s New Rhein Emerging Leaders Academy Scholarship which has been a tremendous support during my studies. This scholarship covers full tuition fee for students who are recognised as emerging leaders in the field who have strong professional experience and a commitment to creating positive social impact.
I found out about the scholarship through Imperial’s scholarship search tool which I used to identify funding opportunities that I’d be eligible for and which aligned with my background. The scholarship application process was clear and structured, with detailed guidance on eligibility criteria and required documents.
This financial support has significantly eased the burden of tuition expenses and in a time of uncertainty within the international development sector, the scholarship has provided stability and allowed me to focus fully on my academic and professional development.
About the Master of Public Health
The Master of Public Health at Imperial is a rigorous course that provides a strong foundation in how public health systems work and how health challenges are measured and addressed globally. So far, my studies have focused on understanding the core principles of public health, analysing patterns and causes of disease through epidemiology, and applying statistics to interpret health data. We also examine how health systems are structured, how policies are governed at national and global levels and how countries prepare for and respond to health threats. The course has already sharpened my critical thinking and strengthened my confidence in using data to inform public health decisions.
Disability support at Imperial
My advice to students who feel hesitant about reaching out for disability support is to know that asking for help is not a weakness – it's a proactive step towards performing at your best.
I have Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD), which affects my concentration, organisation and time management. Learning about Imperial’s Disability Advisory Service (DAS) and the tailored learning support plans and academic adjustments they provide gave me confidence that I would be supported to perform at my best while studying here.
The adjustments I received included access to lecture recordings, reasonable extensions for summative assessments, extended book loans and priority study desks in the Abdus Salam Library. These changes have had a significant positive impact on reducing my stress, improving time management and allowing me to focus on understanding the material rather than worrying about logistical barriers.
My advice to students who feel hesitant about reaching out for disability support is that asking for help is not a weakness – it's a proactive step towards performing at your best. The process of getting support from DAS is confidential, professional and genuinely supportive.
The student community and extracurricular activities
Being part of Imperial’s global community has been both inspiring and interesting for me. My cohort includes medical doctors, lawyers, researchers and policy professionals from around the world, which makes classroom discussions rich and multidisciplinary. Everyone brings a different perspective, and this diversity reflects the complexity of global public health challenges.
Outside of studying, I joined the Imperial College Rugby club to reconnect with rugby, which I had played at an amateur level previously. It has been a great way to get to know people from both undergraduate and postgraduate levels, as well as the wider Imperial community.
I’m also a student representative for my course, which allows me to act as a bridge between students and faculty by sharing feedback and helping improve the learning experience.
Imperial offers a wide range of societies, sports teams, and professional networks – there is genuinely something for everyone. My top tip for new students is to try at least one activity early on, even if it feels outside your comfort zone. Joining a club or society is really one of the fastest ways to build your network and find your community.
What's life at Imperial really like?
Connect with current students and explore the vibrant community that makes life at Imperial so unique.
My experience at Imperial is intellectually demanding, globally connected and deeply transformative.
For anyone considering applying to Imperial, my advice is to be clear about your purpose. Imperial values academic rigour and real-world impact, so highlight not only what you have achieved but also why it matters and how you want to grow. Be authentic in your application, and demonstrate curiosity, resilience and a willingness to contribute to the community.
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