How to Build a Portfolio Career Across Advocacy, Public Health, and Clinical Research

Message from Sachi

Welcome to Interview #50!

I am back after a much-needed break in August, one of the busiest months of the year. I’m sill recovering from some burnout, so going to slowly transition back to Invite Health posting.

This is interview #50 - a huge milestone for our community! Thank you to each and every one of you who have been following along, from those who’ve been following since 2022, or those who have joined this year. A celebration post is coming soon - stay tuned 😊 

This week, I invited Marwah to share her story. Marwah has built an impressive career within research and advocacy, from doing oncology (cancer) research at the Princess Margaret Cancer Centre to advocating with Canadian politicians on issues regarding minority health and social justice. Now, she’s about to start her Master’s in Disaster & Emergency Management (MDEM) at York University

Today, you’ll learn from Marwah:

• Her various research experiences, with full detail of how she found and created these opportunities

• How she built her career in advocacy, highlighting her journey, meeting with political leaders, and which opportunities were paid/unpaid

• Advice for students who want to build a career in public health and policy

Enjoy today’s read,

Sachi 💌 

How to Build a Portfolio Career Across Advocacy, Public Health, and Clinical Research: Interview with Marwah Azizi

First off, tell us about your journey so far. Where do you study, what inspired you to pursue this, and what’s next? What else do you like to do outside of studying?

Hello everyone! My name is Marwah Azizi (She/Her), and I am very excited to take you on a short recap of my academic journey and everything I did in between. I graduated with my Bachelor’s of Applied Science in Public Health from Toronto Metropolitan University (TMU) less than a month ago. If I were to describe my undergraduate journey in one word, it would be "transformative."

This word holds different meanings for different people depending on their story/journey. For me, "transformative" signifies the simultaneous navigation of the intricacies of both my personal and academic lives and the pivotal transition from high school to post-secondary education.

I have always had a deep passion for human physiology and have been endlessly fascinated by the complexities of the human body. This passion drove my confidence in pursuing a degree that would allow me to further explore this interest.

My personal experience of immigrating to Canada exposed me to numerous challenges and systemic barriers from a young age. These experiences fueled a passion within me to advocate for enhanced and equitable health policies that protect underprivileged and minority groups within the Canadian healthcare system. As a result, I confidently chose to pursue a degree in Public Health, which not only deepened my understanding of the medical aspects of the human body, diseases, and preventive measures but also equipped me with the critical knowledge to identify and address the disparities in the healthcare system. Through this education, I have learned how to effectively approach these issues and become a vocal advocate for positive change.

Next up in my academic journey is pursuing my master’s degree in Disaster & Emergency Management (MDEM) at York University with a research focus this coming fall. Although I have not yet finalized my research focus, I am certain that I want to combine my educational background in public health with the emergency management and humanitarian education I will gain here. My goal is to address complex global challenges, particularly those affecting vulnerable populations such as the refugee population, by developing innovative strategies that integrate health, disaster management, and humanitarian aid.

This master’s degree will enable me to integrate my research interests in medicine, public health, and humanitarian assistance, providing a comprehensive approach to managing and mitigating the impacts of disasters and emergencies on communities. 

I am incredibly honored and grateful to have been awarded a full scholarship, which will completely cover my tuition for the entire duration of my program. This generous support not only relieves the financial burden but also motivates me to excel in my studies and make the most of this incredible opportunity.

This experience is why I strongly advise students applying for graduate school to thoroughly explore scholarship opportunities. While some scholarships may automatically consider you based on your GPA and grades in specific prerequisites, others might require a separate application. Taking the time to understand these requirements can significantly impact your financial situation and open doors to valuable educational opportunities.

Can you tell us about some of your research experiences ? Can you talk about if your positions were paid/unpaid, how you found the opportunities, and what you did in each role? What advice do you have for students who want to pursue these types of opportunities? 

Here is an overview of some of my research experiences, including my roles, responsibilities, and advice for students interested in pursuing similar opportunities.

• Summer Research Student at Princess Margaret Cancer Centre, University Health Network (UHN)

Paid/Unpaid: Paid
How I Found the Opportunity: Through The Office of Research Trainees (ORT) at UHN. I started my research by exploring the “opportunities” section of this page which introduced me to the UHN Summer Research and Training (STAR) program. This program is designed for undergraduate and medical students to gain research experience in a specific field of interest under the supervision of a UHN scientist. I submitted my application online to the ORT, and the second stage involved forwarding my application to the hiring physician/scientist, who then scheduled a panel interview and followed up with offering the position a week later. My application package included my resume, most up-to-date transcripts and a cover letter describing why I was interested in working in Oncology research. 

Role and Responsibilities: As a Summer Research Student at Princess Margaret Cancer Centre, I worked under the guidance of Dr. Sita Bhella in the Medical Oncology & Hematology Department. My main responsibilities included:

• Conducting literature reviews on targeted cancer therapies such as CAR-T cell therapy.

• Essentially, CAR-T cell therapy is an advanced form of immunotherapy where a patient's T cells, a type of white blood cell, are genetically engineered to express a Chimeric Antigen Receptor (CAR). This modification enables the T cells to recognize and attack specific cancer cells more effectively. The reprogrammed cells are then multiplied in the lab and infused back into the patient’s body to target and destroy cancer cells. I find the following visual to very helpful in understanding the complexities of this therapy:

• Collecting and analyzing patient data using healthcare software, Epic. 

• Weekly check-ins to report any errors, ask questions and get assigned new tasks with the supervising physician. .

This experience allowed me to gain hands-on experience in clinical research and develop a deeper understanding of the various types of blood cancers as well as how CAR-T cell therapy is utilized in their treatment processes. 

• Patient Flow Coordinator (PFC) at University Health Network (UHN)

Paid/Unpaid: Paid
How I Found the Opportunity: Through UHN's career page and direct application which includes answering a series of questions to ensure you meet the requirements of the job you are applying for and attaching your resume. Should you meet the requirements of the job posting, the hiring manager or an administrative assistant will contact you to schedule an interview. 

Role and Responsibilities: During the summer of 2023, I took on a more professional role to be involved in an intense clinical setting, gain direct patient-care hours,  and enhance my patient care skills as well as closely work with a collaborative team of healthcare professionals including physicians, nurses, Physician Assistants, Radiation Therapists, dietitians and social workers at the University Health Network (UHN)’s Radiation Medicine Program (RMP). My role involved:

Managing Patient Admissions and Discharges:

• Coordinate the admission and discharge processes to ensure smooth patient flow.

• Work with clinical staff to expedite discharges and admissions.

Data Management and Reporting:

• Maintain accurate records of patient admissions, transfers, and discharges.

• Generate reports on patient flow and bed occupancy rates.

Problem-Solving:

• Address and resolve any issues that may arise regarding patient flow.

• Develop and implement strategies to improve patient flow processes.

Coordination of Patient Transfers:

• Coordinate intra-hospital and inter-hospital patient transfers.

• Ensure that all necessary documentation and transportation are arranged for transfers.

Policy Compliance:

• Ensure that all patient flow activities comply with hospital policies and regulations.

• Stay updated on best practices and standards in patient flow management.

Collaboration with Clinical Staff:

• Work closely with doctors, nurses, and other healthcare professionals to optimize patient care and flow.

• Participate in multidisciplinary team meetings to discuss patient care plans.

This role provided me with valuable experience in radiation medicine patient care and a solid foundation in data management and analysis.

Advice for Students

For students interested in pursuing research opportunities, I would say:

1. Network Actively: Attend career fairs, university events, and join relevant clubs or organizations. Networking can often lead to discovering hidden opportunities.

2. Leverage University Resources: I suggest TMU students utilize the Career Development Resources which includes resources such as career advice, job search and opportunities to attend workshops and conferences. These resources can provide leads and advice on securing positions.

3. Reach Out to Professors: Don’t hesitate to contact professors whose research interests align with yours. They can offer guidance and may have openings in their labs. If you haven’t yet built a connection with your professors, cold emailing several of them can significantly increase your chances of receiving a positive response. I highly recommend using this template from a University of Toronto initiative, which I found to be extremely effective. 

4. Be Persistent: Research positions can be competitive. Apply to multiple opportunities and don’t get discouraged by rejections. Every application you submit, adds to your knowledge and understanding of what scientists/physicians look for in students and allows you to submit more concise and improved applications. 

5. Highlight Relevant Skills: Tailor your resume and cover letter to emphasize skills and experiences relevant to the research position you’re applying for.

These experiences have been instrumental in shaping my research skills and career aspirations. I encourage everyone to seek out similar opportunities to gain valuable hands-on experience in their fields of interest.

Advocacy is a central part of your work. Can you tell us your journey- highlighting how you started, what type of opportunities you’ve had, how you got these opportunities, and what your future aspirations are. What advice do you have for those who want to follow your path / for your younger self who is starting out? 

My passion for advocacy grew from witnessing the significant impact of my parents' work in Afghanistan. Their dedication to making a difference inspired me to pursue a path focused on creating meaningful change for the most vulnerable populations and minorities who are often neglected and excluded from important decision-making processes. Initially, I volunteered with local organizations on and off campus such as TMU MSF and  Afghan Youth Engagement and Development Initiative (AYEDI), which allowed me to understand the issues facing marginalized communities and the importance of effective advocacy.

Opportunities: Over time, I have had the opportunity to engage in various advocacy activities:

• Meeting Political Leaders: Through networking and involvement in relevant organizations such as the Dais, as well as participating in affiliated courses such as “Making the Future”, I’ve had the opportunity to meet with political leaders and discuss key issues affecting public health and minority groups.

• Paid and Unpaid Roles: My advocacy work has included both paid and unpaid roles. While volunteering provided valuable experience and connections, paid positions allowed me to contribute more substantially and gain additional expertise.  Some of these organizations include the Syrian Canadian Foundation (SCF), Our Home Ontario, and the  Public Health Youth Association of Canada.

Securing Opportunities: These opportunities came about through a combination of networking, active participation in relevant events, and demonstrating a genuine commitment to the causes I care about. Building relationships with mentors and professionals in the field also played a crucial role. Looking ahead, I aspire to continue advancing my advocacy efforts by focusing on the development and implementation of policies that promote health equity and create meaningful change for underserved communities. My goal is to leverage my expertise to influence public policy and improve healthcare systems for vulnerable populations.

Advice for Aspiring Advocates: For those looking to follow a similar path, here are a few pieces of advice:

1. Build a Strong Foundation: Gain a deep understanding of the issues you are passionate about and stay informed about current developments. Make sure you genuinely resonate with the causes you are advocating for and have a deep, authentic interest in them. 

2. Network Actively: Connect with professionals in the field, attend relevant events, and seek out mentors who can guide you.

3. Be Persistent: Advocacy work can be challenging, but persistence and dedication are key to making a difference. Remember, a small difference is still a difference and can make an impact!

4. Leverage Both Paid and Unpaid Opportunities: Both types of roles provide valuable experience and can help you build a robust resume.

Advice for My Younger Self: To my younger self just starting out, I would say: Stay passionate and curious, and don’t be discouraged by the many 'no's you will encounter along the way. Embrace challenging roles and seek out mentors who can offer guidance. Every experience will contribute to your growth and impact in the field. And remember, just because others haven’t achieved something doesn’t mean you can’t be the one to do it.

What advice do you have for students (especially high school + undergrads) who want to pursue public health and policy, and get positions in these fields, if they don’t have any experience yet? 

To ensure this advice is effective and reflects my undergraduate experiences and insights, I will provide a detailed response below:

1. Education and Courses:

• Focus on Relevant Subjects: Take courses in physiology, chemistry, social sciences, statistics, and policy. Public Health is an extremely broad field, and your undergraduate years are an opportunity to explore it from various angles to discover where your interests and passion lie.

• Some courses I believe are very critical in a student’s Public Health journey include Agents of Communicable Disease, Communicable Disease Control, Biostatistics, Introductory Toxicology, Epidemiology, and Research Methods. 

• Pursue a Relevant Degree: Consider majoring in public health or health policy. While you can always take electives focused on this field, choosing a degree specific in public health will present you with more opportunities and greater knowledge, allowing for advanced career pathways. 

2. Extracurricular Activities:

• Join Health-Related Clubs: Participate in clubs or organizations related to health, such as pre-med clubs, public health clubs, or student associations. Through these involvements, you will be exposed to existing and emerging issues in these fields which will add to your knowledge, ignite new research interests and equip you with targeted problem-solving skills. 

• Volunteer Work: Volunteer with local health departments, hospitals, or non-profits focused on health issues. Working with healthcare and policy professionals can provide valuable hands-on experience, networking opportunities, and a deeper understanding of the challenges and intricacies of public health and policy work 

3. Internships and Work Experience:

• Seek Internships: Apply for internships in public health organizations (e.g. Toronto Public Health (TPH)), non-profits (e.g. Canadian Red Cross, Doctors Without Borders/Médecins Sans Frontières (MSF)), government agencies, or research institutions (UHN, Canadian Institute for Health Information, Women's College Hospital).

• Part-Time Jobs: Look for part-time positions or summer jobs in healthcare settings or organizations focused on health policy (see above). 

4. Networking:

• Attend Conferences and Seminars: Participate in public health conferences, seminars, and workshops to meet professionals in the field.

• Connect with Professors and Mentors on LinkedIn: Build relationships with professors and professionals who can offer guidance and potential opportunities. Build and work on your social media presence and make sure to update your page regularly. 

5. Skills Development:

• Learn Data Analysis: Gain skills in data analysis and statistical software, which are crucial in public health research. A few that are easily accessible online include:

1. R: A programming language widely used for statistical analysis and data visualization.

2. Python: A versatile programming language with libraries like Pandas and NumPy for data analysis.

3. Excel: A spreadsheet program with data analysis and visualization capabilities.

4. Tableau : A data visualization tool that helps create interactive and shareable dashboards

• Develop Communication Skills: Strong writing and communication skills are essential for policy work and advocacy. Contribute to online magazines and organizations that publish student articles.

These hyperlinks will take you to free courses that will first introduce you to these statistical software programs and then delve into their technical details.

6. Research Opportunities:

• Participate in Research Projects: Get involved in research projects related to public health or policy through your school or local institutions.

• Publish and Present: Try to publish your research or present it at conferences to build your resume.

7. Online Courses and Certifications:

Take Online Courses: Platforms like Coursera, edX, and Khan Academy offer courses in public health, epidemiology, and health policy. Earn these certificates and add them to your LinkedIn profile.

Tell us about your experience applying to grad schools! Can you talk about what the application process/timeline was like, what the program formats are like, and why you chose to apply to these schools? Did you apply to any other grad schools? 

I vividly remember how scary and stressful the process of applying to graduate schools seemed to be, and therefore, I had to create a detailed and organized plan on how to best approach each application.

Application Process 

1. Research and Preparation:

• Identify Programs: Research programs that align with your interests and career goals. Consider factors such as faculty expertise, research opportunities, location, and program format (online, on-campus, hybrid).

• Prerequisites: Make sure you meet all academic prerequisites and coursework required for the programs you’re interested in.

2. Application Components:

   • Letters of Recommendation: Request letters from professors, employers, or professionals who can speak to your qualifications and potential. Give them enough time to write and submit their letters.

   • Personal Statement/Statement of Purpose/Letter of Intent (LOI): Write and refine your personal statement, explaining your interest in the program, your academic and professional background, and your career aspirations. Have your friends and family members read your applications and provide you with feedback. I also made sure to reach out to former students of the programs I was applying to, as they had navigated this experience before and could give the best advice on what type of applications might stand out to the admissions committee.

   • Resume/CV: Update your resume or CV to highlight relevant experiences, skills, and accomplishments. Certain programs have specific requirements on what can/should be included on a resume. Make sure to follow their format!!

   • Transcripts: Request official transcripts from your undergraduate institution(s).

3. Application Submission:

   • Online Application: Complete and submit the online application forms for each program. This includes filling out personal information, academic history, and any additional questions or essays specific to the program.

   • Application Fees: Pay the required application fees for each program.

4. Interview (if applicable):

   • Some programs may require an interview as part of the application process. Prepare by practicing common interview questions and reviewing your application materials.

5. Decision and Acceptance:

   • Notification: Programs typically notify applicants of their decisions within 2-4 months after the application deadline.

   • Decision Making: Once you receive offers, compare the programs based on factors such as funding, faculty, research opportunities, and program structure. Make your decision and notify the schools of your acceptance. I also arranged meetings with the program directors to gain a deeper understanding of the programs which immensely helped in my decision making process. 

Program Formats:

• On-Campus Programs: Traditional format with in-person classes, offering opportunities for face-to-face interactions with faculty and peers.

• Online Programs: Flexible format which allows you to complete coursework remotely, ideal for working professionals or those with other commitments.

• Hybrid Programs: A combination of online and on-campus components, providing a balance of flexibility and in-person engagement.

Reasons for Choosing York University’s MDEM program:

• Faculty Expertise: Faculty whose research interests align with mine. Looked up their ongoing research and made sure to send them an introduction email inquiring whether or not they’re accepting master’s students. 

• Reputation: Consider the program’s reputation and ranking in my field.

• Location: Location that offers professional opportunities and a desirable living environment.

• Funding Opportunities: Was offered a full scholarship and other funding options.

• Career Support: Strong career services and alumni networks.

Personal Experience

Following are some of the steps I took while applying to graduate school:

• Applying to Multiple Schools: Applied to more five different programs to increase my chances of acceptance.

• Customized Applications: Tailored each application to highlight why I was a good fit for that specific program.

I tailored each application to highlight why I was a good fit for that specific program by undertaking several key strategies. First, I carefully reviewed the program’s curriculum, faculty interests, and research opportunities to align my application with its unique features. I incorporated relevant experiences from my background, emphasizing how they matched the program's strengths and focus areas.

Additionally, I drafted personalized statements of purpose for each application, addressing how my goals and research interests aligned with the program's offerings. Their work resonated with my past experiences and future aspirations. This demonstrates to the admissions committee that you have thoroughly researched their program and understand its unique strengths. It also shows that you have a clear vision of how you can contribute to and benefit from the program, indicating a genuine and informed interest in joining their academic community.

In my application materials, I also adapted my resume to highlight skills and accomplishments that were most relevant to each program, ensuring that each version showcased the qualities and experiences that the program valued most. By tailoring my applications in this way, I presented a compelling case for why I would be an excellent fit and contribute meaningfully to their academic community.

• Networking: Reached out to current students and alumni to gather insights about the programs and their experiences.

Applying to graduate school requires careful planning, preparation, and a clear understanding of your academic and career goals. By starting early and staying organized, you can navigate the process successfully and find a program that’s right for you.

What types of experiential learning opportunities did you have in undergrad that you think were the most pivotal in getting you to where you are today? Tell about your roles, how you landed the positions, and if they were paid or unpaid. 

Pivotal Experiential Learning Opportunities in Undergrad

1. Founding Connect Health Leaders

Role: Founder and President

• How I Landed the Position: I identified a gap in student engagement and leadership opportunities in health policy and public health within my university. Motivated by this, I took the initiative to form Connect Health Leaders, a student organization dedicated to fostering leadership and professional development in the health sector.

• Paid or Unpaid: Unpaid

• Impact: This experience was transformative, providing me with leadership skills, project management experience, and a deeper understanding of public health issues. It also expanded my network by connecting me with professionals and students passionate about health policy.

2. CanStudyUS Fellowship

• Role: Fellow

• How I Landed the Position: I applied through a competitive selection process that included submitting a lengthy application involving many essay-type questions. This fellowship is organized and offered through the Dais Institute. My prior experience and demonstrated passion for health policy and cross-border health issues helped me secure the fellowship.

• Paid or Unpaid: Unpaid

• Impact: The fellowship provided hands-on experience in health policy research and international health collaborations. It broadened my perspective on health systems and policies in different countries, enhancing my ability to think globally by meeting with learning from U.S. politicians and decision-makers. 

5. Specific Courses

• Courses: Epidemiology, Health Policy, Global Health

• How I Landed the Courses: As part of my undergraduate curriculum, I selected courses that aligned with my interests in public health and policy.

• Impact: These courses provided foundational knowledge and introduced me to key concepts and methodologies in public health. The projects and assignments further developed my research and analytical skills.

6. Research Opportunities:

• Role: Research Assistant with Toronto Public Health (TPH)

• How I Landed the Position: Having established close connections with my professors since the start of my first year, many were aware of my deep interest in getting exposure to research in public health. During the COVID-19 pandemic, Toronto Public Health in collaboration with TMU’s School of Occupational and Public Health led a study to determine the impacts of the pandemic on underprivileged communities. 

• Paid or Unpaid: Paid

• Impact: Conducting research under the guidance of experienced mentors during a global pandemic was very rewarding. It taught me how to collect and analyze data, and present findings, all of which are crucial skills in public health.

These experiential learning opportunities were pivotal in my journey, providing me with practical skills, professional connections, and a deeper understanding of the health sector. Each role, whether paid or unpaid, contributed to my personal and professional growth, preparing me for a successful career in public health and policy.

Where can students go if they want to learn more about your experiences?

If students want to learn more about my experiences or have any questions, they can connect with me on LinkedIn. I'm happy to share insights, provide guidance, and help with networking. Feel free to add me and reach out!

LinkedIn Profile: https://www.linkedin.com/in/marwah-a-b036481a3

Additionally, you can follow my professional journey and get updates on my latest projects and insights on my graduate school journey, research, public health, medicine and policy on my social media pages:

Instagram handle & Link: marwahs.chronicles (Marwah, BASc. (@marwahs.chronicles) • Instagram photos and videos)

Organization Instagram handle & LinkedIn: Connecthealthleaders (Connect Health Leaders (@connecthealthleaders) • Instagram photos and videos)

Don't hesitate to get in touch; I'm here to help and look forward to connecting with you!

Is there any final advice or resources that you would like to share with Invite Health readers?

The following links are a few of my favorite articles/pieces out there that I believe will prove useful for the readers!

Student spotlight: Marwah Azizi, Public Health and Safety

Islamic Heritage Month: The unity of Muslim students on campus

63: Public Health Student Stories | Marwah Azizi | Ryerson University

Afghanistan and Two Decades of Nation Building

Jobs, Opportunities & Resources 💻️ 

Most of these resources are reposted on Invite Health’s LinkedIn page.

• Associate Consultant Intern, 2025 - Toronto, Canada in Toronto, Canada, M4W3E2 | R-228664 | Other Jobs at Mastercard

• Home | Advancing Social Prescribing for Health & Wellbeing - Canada's Social Prescribing Conference (pheedloop.com) 

• Science & Strategy Analyst/ Associate | sixsense strategy group | LinkedIn 

• Oxford Chevening Scholarship Resources

• Project Manager - Data Strategy | Trillium Health Partners | LinkedIn 

• Engagement Manager, Management Consulting | Santis Health | LinkedIn 

• Ellison Scholars - Ellison Institute of Technology (eit.org)

• Research Opportunities at CAMH, Women’s College Hospital, Unity Health Toronto, and more

• Student Training Program - ODPRN 

• 2024 Global Health Case Competition by Partners in Health Canada | Eventbrite 

About Invite Health 💌 

I started Invite Health for my younger self who was trying to figure out what to do with my health sci degree that wasn’t a career in medicine.

Today, I’d say this quote is the primary reason I continue to build Invite Health:

The mission of Invite Health is to close this talent-opportunity gap for students in the life and health sciences.

Since 2022, we’re the leading resource for students figuring out what to do with a life sci / health sci degree. I interview students pursuing diverse careers in healthcare, and how they got there - no gatekeeping here. Every newsletter is rich with resources and insights.

Our main channel is this newsletter, and I occasionally share resources on social media (LinkedIn and Instagram).

You can read more about why I built Invite Health here

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Free Links & Resources 🫰 

• Applying to Grad Schools Notion Guide by Sachi

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