Reflections on my internship at the EUPHA office
Blog by Arianna Maviglia, EUPHA office intern, 2023
Doing my thesis placement with ASPHER and EUPHA while pursuing my studies in Governance and Leadership in European Public Health at Maastricht University has proven to be an incredibly enriching experience. Learning from esteemed international organizations dedicated to enhancing public health education and outcomes has significantly contributed to both my academic and professional development.
Throughout the internship, I had the opportunity to witness first-hand how research translates into policy at the European level. This experience deepened my understanding of evidence-based policymaking and underscored the important role that research plays in shaping effective policies.
Moreover, it emphasized the collaborative nature of public health, highlighting the significance of interdisciplinary collaboration and the different stakeholders that act in the field.
A notable aspect of this internship was my participation in the 17th World Congress on Public Health, which provided a platform to connect with fellow public health professionals and enhance my comprehension of current public health challenges and strategies. Additionally, working closely with the ASPHER working group on economic evaluation in healthcare in Europe was a valuable experience.
As my thesis project, under the supervision of the group I identified key competencies that aspiring public health professionals should acquire to become proficient in economically evaluating public health interventions. This involved a comprehensive approach, a systematic literature reviews and review of syllabi and curricula of renowned public health schools in the European region. Through insightful interviews with EUPHA’s section leaders; I was able to gather expert opinions on what are the core competencies for public health officials.
My visit to EUPHA’s office in Utrecht was particularly insightful, affording me the opportunity to witness the commendable work conducted there and to appreciate the motivating and positive work environment that is fostered. Overall, this internship significantly enhanced my research, writing, and communication skills. It also provided practical exposure to conducting interviews and qualitative studies.
As I conclude my internship and reflect on the past three months, I am genuinely grateful for the invaluable insights I have acquired. This experience has become a cornerstone in shaping the direction of my career in public health-. The understanding I have gained regarding the intricate interplay between research, policy, and the broader landscape of public health will undoubtedly guide me as I advance in my academic and professional pursuits.
