With a lifelong love of history and a passion for public health, Nadia Ahmed is building a future grounded in evidence while writing a story all her own. 

Where are you from?

I was born in Toronto, Canada, but I have spent most of my life in Dhaka, Bangladesh. St. John’s is a city of many remarkable qualities, but what stands out most to me is its quaint atmosphere and welcoming residents. These two features make the city feel especially warm and inviting.

What do you enjoy doing for fun? 

I have a special appreciation for history, so I enjoy reading historical accounts, watching docuseries, and exploring history podcasts.

Why did you decide to pursue a graduate degree?

I always knew that I wanted to pursue a Ph.D. at some point in my life. After working in the International Business division of a pharmaceutical company in Bangladesh for nearly a decade, I realized it was finally time to pursue the academic goal I had long set aside. That realization led me to begin applying for a master’s program, and eventually, a Ph.D.

Why did you choose Memorial University for your graduate studies? 

I chose Memorial University primarily because of the opportunity to work with my research supervisor, Dr. Hai Nguyen, Canada Research Chair (Tier 2) in Health Policy Evaluation and Health Care Sustainability. Dr. Nguyen is a leading health economist and a highly respected scholar whose technical expertise, professional experience, and strong mentorship are instrumental in guiding my Ph.D. training. In addition, Memorial’s vibrant academic community and its robust support for cutting-edge research further motivated me to continue my graduate studies at the university following the completion of my master’s degree.

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

My Ph.D. research focuses on the evaluation of public health policies related to substance use, with the aim of examining their impacts on a range of health outcomes. Through this work, I seek to generate evidence that can inform more effective and equitable public health interventions.

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

My experience as a graduate student at Memorial University has been well-rounded and deeply enriching. From navigating the challenges of the COVID-19 pandemic to enduring periods of geopolitical unrest, I have found Memorial to be consistently supportive and accommodating, both to me and to my fellow students. The School of Pharmacy, along with my academic mentors, has played a vital role in helping me overcome both academic and personal hurdles. The program’s coursework and research opportunities are equipping me with the expertise and skills necessary to achieve my future career goals. The research seminars that are an integral part of our program provide a valuable platform for me to showcase my skills and research innovations. The constructive feedback and discussions with peers and mentors during these sessions consistently help me refine and strengthen my work.

What scholarships or awards have you received?

In 2024, I was recognized as a Canadian Research Data Centre Network (CRDCN) Emerging Scholar and also received the School of Pharmacy Millennium Graduate Fellowship. Additionally, I was honoured to win the Dr. Mohsen Daneshtalab Graduate Poster Competition twice - first in 2018 and again in 2024.

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

Every goal comes with its own set of challenges, and mine is no exception. As a researcher, it's essential to continually find the strength to persevere through setbacks and the discouragement that can follow failed experiments. Resilience and persistence are key to overcoming these moments of doubt. Additionally, living far from home has its emotional toll. It can be deeply exhausting at times, especially when balancing academic demands with personal longing.

What career path are you interested in pursuing after graduation?

While I have not committed to a fixed career path at this stage, I am intentionally keeping my options open. But I know that I would want to engage myself in research, be it in academia or industry, and involve myself in continuous knowledge synthesis.

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

As a current graduate student, I am still learning and growing, fixing things as I go. I've come to understand that progress is rarely linear, and setbacks are a natural part of the journey. For me, the key is to keep moving forward, even if that means taking a few unexpected detours along the way. One of the most valuable lessons I’ve learned is the importance of building genuine connections with peers and mentors. Networking is a powerful form of currency, one that proves valuable not only during graduate studies but also when transitioning into the professional world.

Success in graduate studies isn’t solely about intellectual effort - it also requires that our physical and mental well-being remain in harmony. So, take care of your mind and body.

Anything else you would like to share?

Memorial University has been a wonderful place of learning and growth for me. I’ve gained countless valuable lessons and skills here, so many that it’s hard to keep track. Sometimes I wonder how my journey might have unfolded had I chosen a different institution for my graduate studies. While I may never know the answer, one thing is certain: I have no regrets about choosing Memorial. It has shaped me both academically and personally in ways I truly appreciate.

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