Pratham Tamakuwala is a Master of Public Health (MPH) student concentrating in Epidemiology at the Rutgers School of Public Health. His journey from clinical medicine to public health reflects a strong commitment to understanding health beyond individual care, focusing on systems, data, and disparities at the population level.
As a This Is Public Health (TIPH) Ambassador – a national initiative of the Association of Schools and Programs of Public Health (ASPPH) – Pratham promotes awareness of public health education and exemplifies the school’s mission to prepare forward-thinking leaders in the profession.
We spoke with him to learn more about his academic journey, TIPH ambassador experience, and life outside the lab.
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Tell us a bit about yourself and your background.
My name is Pratham Tamakuwala, and I am a second-year MPH student with an Epidemiology concentration. My journey into public health began in India, where I earned my Bachelor of Medicine and Bachelor of Surgery (MBBS). During the COVID-19 pandemic, I volunteered in conducting home visits for disabled patients, an experience that underscored the critical need for systemic health interventions beyond clinical care. This experience, combined with my clinical background, fuelled my passion for understanding disease patterns at a population level.
What are your research interests?
Currently, my research interests are focused on the intersection of opioid addiction, infectious diseases, and the long-term adverse effects of cancer. I am particularly driven to use biostatistical computing and epidemiologic methods to address chronic disease trends and health disparities.
How has your experience been as a This Is Public Health (TIPH) Ambassador?
As a This Is Public Health (TIPH) Ambassador, I serve as a champion for public health education, representing the Rutgers School of Public Health within the Association of Schools and Programs of Public Health (ASPPH). I applied for this program to help inspire the next generation of health professionals and to raise awareness about the diverse career paths available in this vital profession.
To me, a public health degree represents the shift from treating individual symptoms to healing entire communities by addressing the root causes of inequity. This degree provides the shared language and scientific rigor necessary to tackle complex crises with a unified, global perspective.
Pratham Tamakuwala
Master of Public Health Student, Rutgers School of Public Health
I recently had the opportunity to participate in the "Ambassadors in Action" virtual panel discussion, where I shared my clinical and research experiences with prospective students. I am also looking forward to leading an Instagram takeover this March, where I will highlight daily life in the Epidemiology program, share insights into public health advocacy, and raise awareness about different types of cancers and associated stigma.
Through this role, I aim to contribute to the growth of public health interest by leading virtual events and collaborating on meaningful curriculum improvements.
What do you enjoy doing outside of your academic and professional life?
Outside of my academic and professional life, I am a very outgoing and extroverted person who truly loves meeting new people. I am a passionate cook who enjoys experimenting with flavours, and I find balance through physical activities like hiking and cycling. I also have a creative side; I love to paint and enjoy expressing myself through art.
Whether I am volunteering for the Crisis Text Line or organising community events, I thrive on social connection and meaningful conversations.
