Simon Packer talks about his internship experience at The Union South-East Asia Office
Last year I graduated from Edinburgh University, taking my degree in biological sciences with honours in infectious disease, but I still wasn't sure what direction in public health I would take. However, I knew I wanted to gain some practical experience first before deciding, and taking an internship with The Union South East Asia Office (USEA) seemed like an appealing route.
I came to New Delhi at the end of September 2011 for a six-month internship in the operational research division. I didn't know what to expect. In fact, when I arrived, all I had was Dr Srinath's phone number and the office address.
However, from my first day at the office, it was all "go" and, thankfully, it hasn't let up since. Over the past five-and-half months, I have had some amazing experiences. For example, I went on technical visits to remote parts of India, such as Neemuch town in the Sidhi district of Madhya Pradesh and the Mirzapur district in Uttar Pradesh, where we observed sputum collection and transportation activities under Project Axshya. I also attended the Union World Lung Conference on Lung Health in Lille, France, where I met leading experts in the field and gained knowledge about TB in a global context.
As an operational research intern, I designed and carried out two studies: one study will measure the impact that a specific sensitisation course offered by The Union for village health and sanitation committees has on knowledge and action concerning the social determinants of health related to TB. The study will cover 60 districts across India, comparing sensitised and unsensitised villages.
The second study aims to investigate the impact of the sputum collection and transportation programmes on TB control in India. In particular, it will look at how these programmes help vulnerable and marginalised groups to seek diagnosis. In addition to the studies, I have also been involved in other areas of work, including the development of a vulnerability-mapping tool.
With such a variety of assignments, I have had a well-rounded experience during my time at USEA. The most enjoyable part has been the friendly and helpful staff. There is always someone willing to help if I have a problem. This internship has been the perfect starting point for my future career in public health. When I return to Edinburgh, my focus will be on public health research. Perhaps one day I can return to The Union. I would like to say thanks to everybody who helped during this fulfilling experience.