Student testimonial

Julian Hein, MSc Communication, Health and Life Sciences

After six years of working for an Italian pharma company, Julian Hein decided to go for a Master’s programme. He quit his job in Parma and went to Wageningen for the MSc Communication, Health and Life Sciences.

This programme is a great experience for me. I really got what I wanted: a deep understanding of many new aspects of the health care system.

After graduating my Bachelor in Management in Healthcare, I soon started working at the Italian pharmaceutical company Chiesi. First in Germany, later in Italy. I really loved my job and the health care business. But I realized that I wanted to take a broader view on the healthcare system. Therefore, another full-time study in the field was my logical choice, as the learning on the job is significantly different from studying. I really wanted to invest in my learning experience.

A big pro

“So, I looked for a study programme that would meet my desires. A program that promotes an understanding of health in our societies today and in the future. My search led to the MSc Communication, Health and Life Sciences here in Wageningen. I reviewed the study program online and had a nice orientation meeting with the study advisor. For me that was the best way to find out more about the programme. The international atmosphere with many international students here in Wageningen was also a big pro. I decided to take the leap.”

Different views

“I quit my job in Italy and started  all over in Wageningen. First, I had to do a four-months pre-master, with courses on statistics, research methods and epidemiology. Although it had been some years, it was no big deal going back to college. I had, of course, made a very deliberate choice. During corona it was quite challenging to do all the group work online to be honest. In my work I was used to structured meetings with clear goals. Here we had less clear agendas or roles. But overall, it was very valuable to get to know students with different views and backgrounds. A difference compared to most studies in Germany is the informal contact with teachers. They are very approachable and encourage students to participate in a critical discourse.”

Got what I wanted

“This programme is a great experience for me. I really got what I wanted: a deep understanding of many new aspects of the health care system. I have learned how many relevant problems are inextricably linked to health, e.g., how health in society is interlinked with the environment, food systems or inequalities and how good science communication in health care becomes crucial for decision-making. Here, I became aware again of the enormous importance of good health care policies, of course reinforced by the Corona crisis. Although I still have to do my thesis and internship, I can say that this master has definitely given me many new opportunities.”

As an international student participating in the Annual Introduction Days was the best thing to do. I made real friends these days. I would certainly recommend it.
Tip from Julian

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