Page 59 - Eclipse - Autumn/Winter 2023

CLASSNOTES

A POSTGRADUATE’S STORY

Ayman Abdelkader tells us about his experiences of recently completing

studies in MSc Veterinary Epidemiology and Public Health
(distance learning) with the RVC and University of London.

TELL US ABOUT YOUR JOB
I’ve been working in Abu Dhabi
Agriculture and Food Safety Authority
for the past 14 years. My job title is
Policies Specialist. I’m responsible
for developing and evaluating policies
related to animal health and food
safety. This includes analysis of data,
assess risks, and collaborate with
stakeholders to formulate effective
policies that promote public health,
ensure animal welfare, and maintain
food safety standards. Moreover, I have
to stay updated on relevant regulations,
conduct policy research, and provide
expertise and recommendations to
support decision-making processes.

HOW HAS YOUR COURSE
HELPED WITH YOUR
FUTURE CAREER?
My future career plans revolve around WHAT DID YOU LIKE ABOUT session. By effectively managing my
furthering my expertise and making a THE COURSE? time and staying disciplined, I was able
significant impact in the field of veterinary to strike a balance between studying
epidemiology and public health. As a graduate student completing a and fulfilling my personal and work
distance learning programme, I found
An example of where my MSc degree the study method to be highly flexible commitments. This approach allowed
will contribute is that it has equipped and convenient. It allowed me to balance me to make consistent progress and
me with strong research skills, data my personal and work life effectively. successfully complete my coursework
analysis techniques, and critical thinking In a typical week, I managed my time while maintaining a healthy work-life-
abilities, providing a solid foundation by creating a structured schedule. I study balance.
for conducting meaningful research in allocated specific time slots for studying,
the field. The coursework and practical which included dedicated periods
experiences during my MSc programme for watching lectures, conducting
have honed my research abilities and research, completing assignments, and
given me the necessary tools to undertake participating in online discussions.
rigorous research projects in the future.
To fit studying into my personal and
My MSc degree in Veterinary work life, I made use of available
Epidemiology and Public Health will resources such as online learning
serve as a strong platform for achieving platforms, digital libraries, and study
my career plans. It has provided materials provided by the university.
me with the necessary knowledge, I also utilised communication tools
skills, and network to engage in like email and discussion forums to
advanced research, contribute to connect with professors and fellow
policy development, collaborate students, seeking clarification or
internationally, and foster a lifelong engaging in academic discussion.
commitment to professional growth.
Additionally, I prioritised my tasks
and set realistic goals for each study

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