Student Profile: Kimberly M.

What made you choose to study at the department of Community Health Sciences? 
“Prior to starting my PhD, I worked at the University of Calgary, initially as the Canadian Project Coordinator for the Healthy Child Uganda Project, in the Department of Strategic Partnerships and Community Engagement. I later worked as a Program Coordinator and Research Associate under Dr. Maria J. Santana (who is now my current Primary Supervisor) and Dr. Hude Quan at the Department of Community Health Sciences (CHS). 

During my time at Community Health Sciences, I fell in love with the research I was doing related to person-centred care measurement. I also had new research questions and a real desire to learn more and to be a stronger scientist. Conducting my training at the University of Calgary felt like a natural fit for me, as there were so many research opportunities. I could build the research I was already conducting into a doctoral thesis, and continue to foster the relationships I had built throughout the school - including with the Department of Strategic Partnerships and Community Engagement which would bring my research to an international level. 

Moreover, I have always felt very supported by the faculty and staff, and the department has become like a home for me. I really appreciate the collegial environment, and have had the opportunity to meet so many faculty, students, and staff who have enriched my university experience.” 

What was it like starting at the department? 
“Starting my program at CHS was really busy – with classes, scholarship applications, and getting back into student life. But I received a tremendous amount of support, particularly from my PhD committee and the Graduate Program Director. The learning environment and students I’ve met have been amazing!” 

Are you involved in any extracurricular activities? 
“I’ve been involved with the Graduate Leaders Circle, where I mentor students and help them as they prepare their scholarship applications. I’ve also been involved in many student panels, including the Department Head review and even a national student group for the Canadian Association for Health Services and Policy Research.” 

Did any specific classes help shape your future interests and educational path? 
“I really enjoyed MDCH 666 – Policy Issues in the Canadian Health Care System. As a discussion-based course, I had the opportunity to learn from my fellow students and develop a greater appreciation for the complexity around health policy. I also took a course in the Department of Sociology for one of my electives on Mixed Methods - this was an excellent course and one that has inspired me to develop greater expertise in conducting mixed methods research.” 

What was your favourite memory or experience from your time at CHS? 
“While candidacy is a really intense period, I was grateful to have friends within the department who were completing their candidacy exams around the same time. We were there for each other as we prepared for the exam!”