Meet MPH Student Bahram Pashaee

Why did you choose Jefferson College of Population Health?
I first heard about the accelerated 10-month LEAP (Leaders in Evidence, Application & Prevention) program from a close friend of mine who has since received her MPH and is currently in dental school. I began researching more about the school and attended a few of the information sessions led by the Public Health program director, Dr. Rosie Frasso, who sold me on it. I instantly knew that attending Jefferson would be the best choice for me and bring me one step closer to becoming the well-rounded clinician I aspire to be. After being here for almost three months, I can attest to all the positive aspects of the program that my friend shared with me.

Where are you from originally?
I was born in London and grew up in California, but I am also deeply rooted in my Persian culture and heritage. Shortly after I was born, my family moved back to Iran, and we then immigrated to California when I was about three years old. I lived in California for most of my life and received my Bachelor’s in Biological Sciences from the University of California, Irvine. I have loved living on the East Coast now for almost three months while attending Jefferson.

What is the best part of your studies?
There are many aspects of my studies for which I am grateful. All the professors that I have had thus far have been truly inspirational and motivating. The material I have learned in my classes has been very applicable, and I can see myself utilizing the skills I have gained in my future as a physician. Besides the faculty and curriculum, meeting new friends and being introduced to the warm community at Jefferson has truly been amazing. When I moved to Jefferson, I was nervous not knowing anybody at the school or in the area, but I quickly got involved with on-campus clubs and organizations, which introduced me to some of my closest friends. I currently serve as the President of the JeffSAPHE club; a student-led organization aimed at promoting public health initiatives by incorporating volunteer programs and events for the students. Working with JeffSAPHE has been so much fun for me, and I enjoy getting involved with the campus and working alongside other very motivated students. I have also joined the intramural volleyball and soccer team at Jefferson, which exposed me to many other students in different healthcare fields who are also passionate about sports. Overall, I am beyond grateful and blessed to be at Jefferson studying for my MPH before starting medical school next year.

What’s something people would be surprised to find out about you?
I love to play the guitar, piano and sing whenever I have some downtime. The summer before I started college, I spent my time volunteering at the emergency department in the day and performing at local restaurants and coffee shops in the evenings. This was a great way for me to immerse myself in the medical field alongside my passion for music. Although I haven’t been performing as much as I used to, I hope to keep this balance between school and music as I continue my journey.