Mitali Choudhary, MBBS
Mitali Choudhary, MBBS, is a physician from India and a first-year student in the Epidemiology & Biostatistics concentration in the Graduate Program in Public Health at the Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai. Her background is rooted in clinical practice as a Medical Officer at Tata Memorial Hospital in Mumbai, India, where she navigated the complexities of oncology and patient care management.
In this Q&A, she explains why she decided to study public health at Mount Sinai and how the curriculum, mentorship, and opportunities outside of the classroom have allowed her to grow both personally and professionally and continue in a career in public health.
During the application process, was it easy to find information about the MPH program and get your questions answered? What resources did you use to make your decision?
When I began searching for graduate programs in public health, I wanted a school that combined academic rigor with practical opportunities. The application process at Mount Sinai’s Graduate School was straightforward, and easy to navigate. The program website provided clear information on curriculum requirements, faculty expertise, and career outcomes, and the admissions team responded promptly whenever I had questions.
Why did you choose to study at Mount Sinai?
I ultimately chose Mount Sinai because of its strong reputation in research, its location in New York City, and the clear commitment to addressing pressing public health challenges. The opportunity to learn in an institution embedded within a world-class health system was especially appealing. I felt confident that the MPH program would prepare me with both the theoretical knowledge and practical skills needed for a career in public health.
Can you tell us about a course that you found particularly interesting and why?
One of the courses I found particularly valuable was Epidemiology. The professor’s teaching style emphasized not only mastering foundational concepts but also applying them to real-world scenarios. Through case studies and hands-on data analysis assignments, I learned how to think critically about patterns of disease and health disparities. This course strengthened my ability to evaluate evidence and spurred my interest in pursuing research that translates into community-level change. This course coupled with other courses focused on bridging the gaps between health care and disparities gave me ways to work on my own solutions to address the problems that exist at a foundational level.
How are the opportunities for mentorship in the program?
Mentorship has been another defining feature of my experience. From the beginning, I was paired with a program advisor who took time to understand my academic goals and career aspirations. Informal conversations with professors after class have also been invaluable, as they are always willing to share advice and connect students with opportunities. In addition, the program’s alumni network has provided mentorship and guidance that extends beyond the classroom.
What activities are you pursuing outside the classroom?
Outside of academics, I have found a vibrant student community. I participate in student initiatives that bring peers together across public health concentrations. I also volunteer with local community health fairs, which allow me to apply what I am learning in the classroom to real-world service. Living in New York has added another dimension to my graduate school experience, as the city itself offers countless cultural and professional opportunities. Overall, my time at Mount Sinai has been deeply rewarding. The program has provided me with a rigorous education, supportive mentorship, and the chance to grow personally and professionally. I am confident that the skills I am building here will prepare me to make a meaningful contribution in the field of public health.