My thesis
Menopause, despite being a pivotal stage in a woman’s life, is not a uniform experience. For immigrant Punjabi women, it is profoundly shaped by unique challenges influenced by their socio-cultural backgrounds, beliefs, and social norms. My master’s thesis investigates their experiences of menopause and reproductive health trajectories, exploring how beliefs, attitudes, and perceptions within the South Asian Punjabi community influence these experiences.
Through this research, I aim to identify the social and cultural factors shaping their understanding and management of menopause and health-seeking behaviors. I hope to uncover ways these insights can inform culturally sensitive healthcare practices that address their reproductive health needs. This study addresses a significant gap in research on marginalized Punjabi women and healthcare provision. In the long run, it has the potential to inform the development of culturally sensitive healthcare practices tailored to the needs of South Asian Punjabi women, promoting inclusivity, gender equity, and improved health outcomes. While the focus is on Punjabi immigrant women, this study can serve as a foundation for exploring menopause experiences among other South Asian women.
My time in the School of Public Health Sciences (SPHS)
My experience as both an undergraduate and graduate student at the University of Waterloo has been incredibly enriching. I believe the opportunities I've had in the School of Public Health Sciences are largely due to the supportive and encouraging faculty and staff. Despite occasional imposter syndrome, I always felt I belonged, with room to grow and make space for myself—something I aim to continue throughout my master's.
We are fortunate to learn from professionals across various public health and healthcare fields. Collaborating with and even teaching alongside professors has been central to my rewarding experience. One notable full-circle moment was guest lecturing for HLTH 260, a course I loved during my second year when classes were virtual. After the lecture, several students shared their thoughts and interest in my work, which filled me with pride and gratitude.
My goal is to attend medical school and become a physician, and the connections I've made within the School of Public Health Sciences will undoubtedly support me throughout my journey.