Convocation Spotlight: Sidney Gee, master in public health
13 June 2025
After beginning a career in nursing, Sidney Gee realized he wanted to bring that clinical lens to work that would impact the broader population, and public health was the natural choice to bring that vision to life. Today he looks back as he graduates with a master’s degree in public health, with a deep appreciation for the things he learned from how to navigate the political landscape to managing program development in the context of health.
What was your go-to spot on campus?
Sperber became a nice study spot to meet up with friends and focus. Outside of studying, I often got my guilty pleasure of western-style Chinese food from Panda Express.
What activities did you do outside of your studies?
My final practicum was in the Government of ß÷ßäÉçÇø, Ministry of Health. I learned a lot about how to navigate in uncertain space and weave through the government culture. I learned how everything you do has to tell a story that speaks in some way to whoever you're writing to. It doesn't have to be long — in fact, there's an art in telling a comprehensive story in the most succinct form possible.
What advice would you give to a student considering a public health program?
Make connections. Networking seems scary and superficial but I wouldn't think about it that way. Think about making friends and take time to learn about people — who they are, where they come from and why they're where they are. You'll find connections will form naturally and it'll take you way farther than a grade. You're not networking to get a job; you're networking because there are people who have been in your shoes and you can learn from them. Still seek opportunities, but it is draining to only seek opportunities from relationships you build.