Questions

What do you hope to achieve during your postgraduate study at Birmingham?

During my postgraduate study at Birmingham, I hope to make meaningful contributions to the field of dementia research, particularly in the area of suicide risk. My goal is to deepen our understanding of the complex factors that contribute to mental health challenges in individuals with dementia and to identify strategies that can help mitigate these risks. By the end of my PhD, I aim to have produced research that not only advances academic knowledge but also has practical implications for improving care and support for vulnerable populations.

In addition to my research, I hope to develop as a well-rounded academic by enhancing my skills in critical thinking, data analysis, and interdisciplinary collaboration. I also look forward to engaging with the wider academic community at Birmingham, contributing to seminars, conferences, and discussions that will further shape my research and professional development.

Ultimately, my hope is that my work during this time will serve as a foundation for future research and will have a positive impact on dementia care and mental health interventions.

What are you looking forward to most on your course?

What I’m looking forward to most in my PhD course is the opportunity to dive deeply into my research on dementia and suicide risk. I’m excited to explore this under-researched area, particularly in understanding the complexities of cognitive decline and its impact on mental health. I’m eager to engage with cutting-edge research methods, collaborate with experts in the field, and contribute new knowledge that could help inform preventative strategies and support for individuals at risk.

I’m also looking forward to the interdisciplinary nature of my course, which will allow me to integrate different perspectives from applied health research and work with others who are passionate about tackling real-world health challenges. It’s this combination of in-depth research and collaboration that I’m most excited about, as I believe it will help me grow both as a researcher and as a contributor to the field.

What have been your first impressions of Birmingham so far?

My first impression of Birmingham has been overwhelmingly positive, especially in terms of the kindness of its people. One particular experience that stands out is when I arrived at the train station with heavy luggage. As I struggled with my bags, a passing jogger kindly offered to help me carry them down an entire flight of stairs. This small act of generosity really made a strong impression on me and gave me a sense of the warmth and friendliness of the city’s residents.

Beyond that, I’ve also been struck by Birmingham’s vibrant atmosphere and its blend of cultures. It feels like a welcoming and diverse place, and I’m excited to explore it further during my time here.

What was your motivation for postgraduate study?

My motivation for pursuing a PhD stems from a strong desire to contribute to the understanding of complex mental health issues, specifically in vulnerable populations. During my Masters in Global Mental Health and Society, I became particularly interested in the intersection of cognitive decline and mental health, which led me to focus on dementia-related suicide risk for my PhD research.

Suicide risk in individuals with dementia is an area that is often overlooked, yet it is a critical aspect of care and prevention. I was motivated to delve into this topic because of its growing relevance in ageing societies and the gaps in both research and practical interventions. By exploring the social, psychological, and biological factors that contribute to suicide risk in people with dementia, I hope to develop insights that can inform better preventative strategies and support systems for this at-risk group.

This PhD represents an opportunity to contribute to an under-researched field while also applying my academic background in mental health and society to a pressing issue that has both personal and societal impacts.

Tell us about yourself and your journey to postgraduate study.

My journey to postgraduate study has been shaped by a deep curiosity about the intersection between health and society. I first developed an interest in this area during my undergraduate years, where I was actively involved in volunteering and leadership roles, including serving as president of the Tzu Chi Youth Club at Taipei Medical University. These experiences gave me valuable insight into community health and environmental issues, and they inspired me to pursue further studies.

Following my undergraduate degree, I completed a Masters year in Global Mental Health and Society at the University of Edinburgh. This experience deepened my understanding of the complex social and cultural factors that influence mental health. It also opened my eyes to the diverse challenges faced by communities around the world, particularly as I engaged with international student societies and broadened my perspective.

Currently, I am undertaking a PhD in Applied Health Research. I am particularly excited to combine the practical skills I’ve developed with my academic background to contribute meaningfully to the field. As I advance through my PhD, I am motivated by a desire to deepen my research skills and explore innovative solutions to the pressing health issues of our time.