“It took a few years to discover my true direction. A new physician starting on the global health path encounters many twists, turns and detours along the way – but that’s to be expected in our field. The journey is complicated and challenging, but always exciting and interesting. The secret is never to lose sight of what’s best for you as a doctor.”
These words of encouragement were spoken by Dr. Patrick O’Connor, (MSIH alumnus, 2003) in his presentation at the Physician’s Oath Ceremony of the 2022 entering class of MSIH. Twenty-seven first year students took their oath – administered by outgoing MISH Director, Prof. Mark Clarfield.
Dr. O’Connor is currently Team Lead for Accelerated Disease Control (ADC) at the WHO Regional office for Europe in Copenhagen. Since graduating from MSIH nearly 16 years ago, he has worked in several countries including Darfur, South Sudan, Indonesia, Syria, Iraq, India and Pakistan. He has performed various leadership and technical positions, for UNICEF in New York, the World Health Organization, and the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention in Atlanta, USA. His main focus today is on supporting countries on remaining polio-free and accelerating the elimination of measles and rubella.
“I remember sitting where you are now,” explained Dr. O’Connor. “I was very nervous and could never have guessed what lay before me. You are very privileged to be studying at MSIH and you’re going to go into the world with an excellent medical education that can give you an exciting, meaningful and satisfying career. Make the most of your time here. It is short, but full of experiences that will serve you well in a career in global health.
The Physician’s Oath Ceremony was the culmination of MSIH’s 20th Anniversary Celebrations that took place in October 2018. Also present were several visiting physicians from MSIH’s partner institutions in medical schools around the world.
Are you a prospective medical student interested in being more than just a “white coat”? Request a consultation with our admissions team to learn more about the unique MD program offered at MSIH.
