By applying a focus on priorities to her research and her own life, Amara Sundus identifies the most important steps for improving transgender healthcare while managing family responsibilities and graduate studies.

Where are you from?

I grew up in Sheikhupura, a historic city in Pakistan known for its rich culture and heritage. Although I spent most of my life in Islamabad, living in St. John’s now feels like a second home, evoking the warmth and familiarity of Islamabad’s environment.

What do you enjoy doing for fun?

I enjoy exploring the intersection of spirituality, history, and science, whether diving into ancient religious texts to unpack their symbolism or tracing how concepts like energy and resonance appear across cultures and disciplines. I love analyzing how ‘mystical’ ideas have shaped philosophy and literature, because it reminds me that curiosity can turn the abstract into something deeply human. When I’m not geeking over these topics, I’m usually experimenting in the kitchen; cooking lets me channel creativity (and occasionally embrace delicious disasters!).

Why did you decide to pursue a graduate degree?

I decided to pursue a graduate degree to bridge the gap between health equity research and real-world impact, particularly for underserved communities such as 2SLGBTQIA+ populations. Through my work as a nurse and educator, I’ve seen firsthand how systemic barriers, like limited access to culturally safe and inclusive care, can negatively affect health outcomes. These experiences motivated me to deepen my knowledge in person-inclusive care, health policy, and system-level interventions. More than just academic growth, this journey is deeply personal, about contributing to a healthcare system that upholds dignity, equity, and the voices of those often left unheard.

Why did you choose Memorial University for your graduate studies?

I chose Memorial University because of its strong focus on health equity, community-based research, and inclusive healthcare education, values that really resonate with me. As an international student and a nurse passionate about improving care for marginalized populations, I wanted a program that supports both academic excellence and meaningful real-world impact. What made Memorial stand out even more was the chance to work with Dr. Ahtisham Younas. His expertise in social justice, compassionate and person-centered care, and commitment to supporting underserved communities align closely with my research goals. Having a supervisor who truly understands and supports my focus has made Memorial the ideal place for me to grow as a researcher and contribute to positive change.

What is your research/thesis about? How do you describe your research to a general audience with no background in the field?

My research focuses on identifying prioritized structural interventions for person-inclusive care for transgender individuals. Transgender individuals often face significant barriers in healthcare settings, including discrimination, a lack of provider knowledge, and policies that fail to reflect their needs. To address these issues, I’m using a method called Q methodology, which helps bring together and compare the perspectives of three key groups: transgender individuals, transgender research experts, and healthcare professionals. This study begins by developing a set of concise statements that describe possible improvements in care. Each participant then sorts these statements along a scale from ‘least important’ to ‘most important,’ based on their own experience and expertise. By analyzing how each group ranks the statements, I can identify where perspectives align and where they differ. The outcome will be a prioritized list of structural interventions that healthcare institutions can implement to provide more respectful, affirming, and person-inclusive care for transgender individuals. Ultimately, this research aims to inform practical, community-informed changes that improve health outcomes and care experiences for transgender individuals. This study doesn’t just ask ‘What’s wrong?’, it asks ‘What should we do first, and why?’ so that healthcare environments can become truly inclusive for transgender individuals.

How would you describe your experience as a graduate student at Memorial?

Being a graduate student at Memorial has been a rewarding and inspiring experience. I've had opportunities to engage in meaningful research, learn from knowledgeable and supportive faculty, and connect with a diverse academic community. The environment encourages critical thinking, collaboration, and personal growth, which has helped shape my development as a researcher.

What scholarships or awards have you received?

I have been honoured to receive several scholarships and awards during my graduate studies, including the WAMUN Scholarship, the SPOR Graduate Fellowship, and the CIHR Travel Award. These awards have been invaluable in supporting my research and academic development.

Have you faced any challenges in life that you’ve overcome to pursue graduate studies?

Well, pursuing graduate studies hasn’t been without challenges. Moving to a new country and adapting to a different academic system took time and effort. Balancing family responsibilities alongside demanding coursework and research also required strong time management and resilience. However, these experiences have strengthened my determination and commitment to my goals, and I believe they’ve made me a more focused and capable student.

What career path are you interested in pursuing after graduation?

After graduation, I’m aiming for a career that allows me to combine research and practice to improve healthcare for underserved populations, particularly transgender individuals. I’m interested in roles within academia or health policy where I can contribute to developing inclusive, evidence-based interventions and support system-level changes that promote equitable, person-inclusive care.

What advice would you give to current or future graduate students?

My advice to current and future graduate students is to stay curious and be patient with yourself. Take your time to find your focus, and don’t hesitate to ask questions, whether about your research, your direction, or your own needs. Graduate studies can be demanding, but they’re also a way to build confidence alongside credentials. Surround yourself with supportive people, stay open to feedback, and remember that your voice and perspective matter in academic spaces. Be patient with yourself, maintain a clear sense of purpose, and use setbacks as opportunities to learn and grow. Above all, make sure to prioritize your well-being throughout the journey.

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