Student blogs

The first feeling that I had when I started meeting all of my global health classmates was nothing but pure awe, and rightly so. Not only do I get to share the classroom with all these people who have all kinds of knowledge, but I get to learn from them as well! In the coming weeks, I will put out a more specific blog on the global health classroom dynamic. For now, I thought it would be nice to start a student spotlight chain where the unique diversity, passion, and individuality that represent our programme can be showcased.

And along with that, where I can also introduce some of my amazing classmates (who knows, you may be inspired by some of them). To start us off, meet Irene Abuhatab Arias!

How old are you, where are you from, and what were you doing before coming to KI?

I’m 34 years old and I come from Mexico and Colombia. I graduated with a bachelor’s degree in Nursing and Obstetrics in 2020. After that, I completed a Master’s in Migration and Health Interventions and worked with different organisations, including Médecins Sans Frontières and the International Organization for Migration.

What led you to global health?

I’ve always been deeply interested in forced migration and its impact on individuals, communities, and countries. I wanted to specialise in equitable health services for migrant populations, but then I realised that to truly understand the root causes of migration, I needed to look at things from a global health perspective.

What have you enjoyed the most about the programme so far?

What I love most about the programme is the diversity of backgrounds in our class. It really makes discussions more enriching and helps me see topics from perspectives beyond just healthcare.

What’s your favourite thing to do in Sweden?

Hiking! Sweden is an absolute forest dreamland — it has one of the largest forest areas in the world, and I love that there are so many trails and national parks to explore.

If you could give your past self any advice, what would it be?

Don’t limit yourself to the “safe” options. Step out of your comfort zone as often as needed. Dare to dream bigger, even when the path seems tough. Take the road less travelled — it’s worth it. Good  “neurohabits” and discipline  will help you to turn those dreams into reality.

In short

Stories like Irene’s remind us how our passion for global health can be a uniting force even when facing completely different paths. Her journey to the field has definitely been a unique and inspiring one, but certainly not the only one out there! Next up, we will be hearing from another classmate who just this past summer finished her bachelor’s degree. Stay tuned!