Bethany Taylor – ’20

Doctor of Osteopathy Candidate at University of New England College of Ostheopathic Medicine

What sparked your interest in global health, and how did you hear about the M.S. in Global Health program?

I wanted to dive deeper into the drivers of health inequities globally along with learning how Health Systems functioned globally. I was drawn to the courses the program offered along with the incredible faculty at the program. I also appreciated the opportunity to earn a certificate in African studies via the School of Foreign Service.

How would you depict the classroom instruction?

Excellent. Course objectives were well defined, lectures were engaging, and my colleagues all had unique experiences to share.

Where did you complete your field research module and what was your project?

Mwanza, TZ: Factors Associated with Pre and Post Delivery Adherence to PMTCT Services and a Study of Trends of HIV Positive Children Entering Care and Their Mother’s Use and Understanding of PMTCT

What did you learn from your experience abroad?

I was also chosen for a Department of State Critical Language Scholarship that allowed me the opportunity to study Swahili in Tanzania for 10 weeks over the Summer and then I went and completed my research project. Having a solid foundation in the language enhanced my ability to do research there and gave me a better appreciation of the culture I was entering

What has been your career path since completing the program?

I decided I wanted to use my degree as a complement to actually practicing medicine. I am now in my final year of medical school and will be applying to OBGYN residencies this Fall with the hope of practicing locally here in the US and serving globally in East Africa. I have also returned to Tanzania twice since doing research there to volunteer with a medical clinic in Arusha. Additionally I co founded an organization with a local contact/friend I made while living in Mwanza that now serves Women and Children in the area that are victims of abuse. We have ongoing education programs in the local government schools for children and teachers. I will be returning to Mwanza in March of 2026 to serve for a week with the organization. Finally, I will be completing an international OBGYN rotation at a mission hospital in Kenya in February 2026.

What opportunities were you afforded by attending graduate school in Washington, DC?

As I mentioned above I think the biggest opportunity was receiving the Critical Language Scholarship. However, I also had the opportunity to sit in on other lectures given across the Georgetown campus. Additionally, some of my lectures were at the World Bank or at Embassies of foreign countries. Those types of experiences really only come if you’re living in DC.

W​ould you recommend the program?  What was special about Washington, DC?

100 PERCENT! I loved my time in the program.
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