2nd Year GLEPI MPH: Rutika Raina

For this week’s #IamEmoryEpi spotlight, we met up with Rutika Raina!

Tell us where you went to school:

I did my undergrad in India, where I studied Biotechnology.

What are your primary research interests?

My research interest is in non-communicable diseases; particularly psychiatric illness and neurological disorders. I am doing my thesis on Schizophrenia.

What did you do this past summer?

I was working at the Erasmus Medical Center in the Netherlands at their psychiatric epidemiology department during summer. I loved every bit of my experience in the Netherlands. I actually got to take some time off to roam around and I went to Belgium and Italy for vacation; attended the pride parade in Amsterdam.

How did you find the research that you are currently conducting?

I found my practicum by literally sending an email to the HOD at their Epi Department and things kind of worked smoothly from there. I had an interview and I got in and they actually reimbursed me for my travel expenses.

What is your favorite part about being at Emory?

My favorite part about doing my MPH at Emory is the diversity. The people that I have met and the friends that I have made; the relationships that I have forged, these are the things I am going to be carrying away after I graduate. Oh, also the food that I have had from different cultures and backgrounds. I love it! Obviously, some hard skills too but that’s why we are here, I guess!

Do you have any advice for MPH students?

My advice to the first years would be to take advantage of every opportunity to explore their interests. Graduate school is a lot of work but make sure to breathe once in a while and just broaden your perspective because Rollins provides you with so much that it is overwhelming at times.

What are three fun facts about yourself?