anotherlurker

Thanks!! I'm a non-traditional applicant, I completed a Bachelor's in Environmental Studies (majoring in Urban Planning) at UW in 2019. I also graduated with a Diploma in GIS as well as a specialization in Urban Design. I did the co-op program there, so my academic record is a bit scattered, but my last 60-credits/all 300-400 level courses avg was roughly 85% (3.9/4.33 GPA?). My work experience is varied and mostly in policy. I currently work in municipal government as an urban planner (~1.5 years) in BC, focusing on housing, land use planning, and long range planning. Before that, in co-op I had some research experience in the provincial government on the topic of road safety (cumulatively ~1 year). Other than that, I spent one semester each as a map designer at a private company and a communications assistant at UW; part-time, I was a TA for an urban design undergrad course for one semester. I also volunteered with the LGBTQ+ services centre at UW for about three years, on and off between co-op semesters. My references were 2 supervisors in my current job, and 1 supervisor from my research position in the provincial government. This is my second time applying to MPH programs (I first applied in 2019). Although my references are all professional, they were very strong, which I find is more important than having lukewarm academic ones. I spent a lot of time on my LOI (2 months) and had it reviewed by multiple MPH alumni. I didn't really have much public health experience, but I am very interested in epidemiology. I found in my work that there is an interdisciplinary space between geography, planning, and public health that I am passionate in exploring - particularly through social epi. I hope this helps! Fingers crossed for everyone still waiting.

I also just received a rejection letter from UBC. As I only applied to two schools, I'll be accepting my offer to SFU today. Best of luck to everyone still waiting!

I just got accepted into SFU MPH today!! I got it via email, deadline is 2 weeks from when you get the offer (so March 31st for me). I am still waiting on UBC MPH, which is my first choice.