Senior Spotlight: Vinti Bakhshi

BSPH senior Vinti Bakhshi reflects on Loyola experience

Vinti Bakhski’s desire to study public health stems from her ambition to create a more equitable healthcare system. And because of her education at Loyola University Chicago’s Parkinson School of Health Sciences and Public Health, she feels well-equipped to do so. Learn more about Vinti’s experience at the Parkinson School and her plans for after graduation:

What prompted your interest in public health?

As a proponent for equitable healthcare, especially in the mental health sphere and women’s health, I have been dissatisfied with the inadequate services the U.S. healthcare system currently provides, as patient outcome is considered average or lower than average. Because reform is key in my pursuit of becoming a public health leader, viewing the current conditions today have prompted me to address the challenges in my community by developing, evaluating, and implementing significant health initiatives for all communities of color.

Why did you come to Loyola?

I came to Loyola to seek a well-rounded and hands-on experience. I wanted a robust curriculum that would develop my fundamental knowledge and allow me to contribute to the field of public health. Loyola was a building block for my dedication to health care, enabling me to bridge the gap between the classroom and real-world scenarios. Loyola fostered my many interests in health equity and introduced me to the many wonderful professors and peers in the institution.

What was the most memorable part of your time at Loyola?

The most memorable part was meeting my lifelong friends. I was lucky enough to be molded into the person I am today due to the meaningful conversations I’ve had in and out of the classroom. Expanding my horizons to the many extracurricular organizations I was able to join and contribute to had one of the biggest impacts on my undergraduate career.

What are you planning to do with your degree after graduation?

After receiving my degree, I will continue my education in the public health space. I will be attending the Mailman School of Public Health at Columbia University to receive my Master of Public Health in Health Management and Policy. I am thrilled about the opportunities that New York City will be able to offer me in the next two years.