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Twinkle Mali

Twinkle Mali is pursuing a Master of Public Health degree at the National Centre for Epidemiology and Population Health (NCEPH).

 Where did you complete your internship?

I completed an internship with Canberra Health Services in Belconnen, Canberra, focusing on healthcare access and utilization in obesity management services for culturally and linguistically diverse (CALD) populations.

Why did you decide to apply for an internship?

I applied for the internship to gain hands-on experience in public health research, particularly in addressing health inequities. Working with CALD populations allowed me to explore how diverse cultural backgrounds influence healthcare access, an area I’m passionate about.

How was the process? What was the level of support from the college/university? 

The process was smooth! The College of Science and Medicine at ANU provided excellent support throughout. I discovered the opportunity through the College’s annual Science Internship Program advertisement and applied because I was eager to gain real-world, hands-on experience. I was fortunate to be selected.

Dr. Matt and Marian supported us at every stage, from the selection process to providing a step-by-step guide throughout the internship. Their mentorship, resources, and weekly meet-ups kept us focused and motivated, ensuring we stayed on track. Their guidance helped me secure an internship that aligned perfectly with my interests and career aspirations.

Did you end up with the specific internship opportunity that you were after? Were there others that you were interested in?

Yes, this internship aligned perfectly with my goals. I was particularly interested in projects focused on healthcare equity, and this opportunity allowed me to explore public health issues affecting CALD populations in depth.

The Science Internship Program offered a wide range of options, and I was fortunate to choose from several unique opportunities. While each internship had its own strengths, I’m truly satisfied with the one I was accepted into.

The support from the faculty and internship office was incredible. Everyone involved was encouraging, and their guidance made this one of the most surreal and rewarding experiences of my academic journey.

Can you describe a day in your life as an intern? 

A typical day involved meeting with supervisors to discuss project progress, analyzing data on healthcare services, and reviewing literature on the barriers and facilitators to healthcare for CALD communities. I also spent time drafting reports and summaries to support recommendations for improving obesity management services.

My colleague and I collaborated daily, discussing our progress and planning our next steps together. Our internship supervisor, Dr. Louise Brightman, was an incredible mentor. She tailored the internship to align with our individual goals and provided one-on-one feedback whenever we needed her expertise.

We also had opportunities to interact with other colleagues and professionals, allowing us to learn from their experiences and build valuable connections. That’s one of the key benefits of an internship—learning from experts and expanding your professional network.

Biggest achievement and/or most memorable experience from your internship?

One of my biggest achievements was contributing to a report that highlighted the key barriers CALD populations face in accessing obesity management services. This work was incredibly rewarding, as I had the opportunity to hear real-life stories from patients and community members during interviews. Their experiences provided valuable insights into the challenges they encounter.

A particularly memorable experience was my final presentation at Canberra Health Services. My supervisor and personnel from the internship office attended to hear our findings. This presentation marked the conclusion of the internship, where we reviewed our research, shared key discoveries, and discussed steps for moving forward.

The session sparked insightful discussions, broadening everyone’s understanding of the topic and introducing different perspectives. It was a powerful learning experience that deepened my understanding of the research and its broader implications in the field.

Do you believe this internship will help you achieve your career goals? If yes, how?  

Absolutely! This internship enhanced my skills in research, stakeholder engagement, and understanding public health inequities. It provided practical experience that will support my future work in policymaking or healthcare program management.

What would you say to future students about pursuing a science internship?

I’d say go for it! Internships offer invaluable hands-on experience and the opportunity to apply theoretical knowledge to real-world challenges. They also help you build networks and develop skills that will set you apart in your career.

What do you enjoy doing with your free time?

I enjoy exploring Canberra’s beautiful nature trails, spending time with friends, and cooking. I also love volunteering and participating in community events.

Why did you choose ANU?

ANU is renowned for its public health program and exceptional research opportunities. I was particularly drawn to the National Centre for Epidemiology and Population Health for its strong focus on health equity and evidence-based solutions, which align perfectly with my career goals.

Additionally, ANU’s location in Canberra—the capital of Australia—adds to its appeal. Being home to numerous government organizations and public health offices, Canberra offers unparalleled opportunities to engage with national-level policymaking and collaborate with key stakeholders in public health.

What do you like most about your student experience so far? 

I love the supportive and diverse student community at ANU. Access to world-class resources, inspiring lecturers, and collaborative opportunities has made my experience unforgettable. The professors, staff, and the entire ANU community are incredibly approachable and supportive, making it easy to communicate and seek help whenever needed.

As an international student, I initially feared facing language and communication barriers. However, that concern quickly proved to be a myth. ANU’s inclusive and welcoming environment has made me feel valued and involved from the start. This sense of belonging has given me an incredible student experience where I’ve never felt isolated or disconnected. It’s been truly fulfilling and has eliminated any fear of missing out.

Did you receive any prizes/scholarships while studying at ANU? 

I was part of the student mentorship program at ANU, which was an incredible experience. I was also honored to receive the Academic Excellence Award from Burgmann College at ANU—a meaningful recognition of my academic efforts. This achievement further motivated me to continue striving for excellence in my studies.

What's next after you complete your study? 

I plan to work in public health policy or healthcare program management, focusing on improving access to care for underserved populations. In the long term, I aspire to contribute to global health initiatives that address health inequities and shape effective policies.

What is your favorite thing about living in Canberra?  

I love the blend of nature and city life in Canberra. The peaceful environment, friendly community, and access to beautiful hiking trails make it a fantastic place to live and study. Canberra has given me the space and clarity to grow in ways I never imagined, both mentally and physically.

Living here has made me more grounded and thoughtful. The city's simplicity and tranquility have brought a sense of calmness to my mind, allowing me to focus on what truly matters. Everything feels well-balanced, and this lifestyle has significantly contributed to my overall well-being.

Anything else you would like to share?

Working with CALD populations during my internship was an eye-opening experience. It reinforced the importance of culturally sensitive healthcare delivery, and I hope to carry these lessons forward in my career.

Find out more about science internships.