IPN Spotlight: Dr. Henna Budhwani (Assistant Professor & Deputy Director, University of Alabama at Birmingham)
Dr. Henna Budhwani, Assistant Professor in the Department of Health Care Organization and Policy and Deputy Director of the UAB Sparkman Center for Global Health (School of Public Health), holds a Ph.D. in Medical Sociology and an M.P.H. in Health Care Organization and Policy from the University of Alabama at Birmingham. Dr. Budhwani works closely with community partners in the United States and abroad that are interested in improving health outcomesof vulnerable populations through public health practice. Dr. Budhwani’s research interests include health disparities, with an emphasis on immigrant and minority health, and international health, in the areas of reproductive health and infectious disease.
What skills have helped you in your career?
My first job out of college was with a sales and marketing firm. There I learned to gracefully take no for an answer and to accept that not all rejection was personal. I learned perseverance, which is particularly important in academia. I often tell my students (who are interested in careers in international development) to learn to be likable or quirky or both. Global work is built upon relationships, so if a potential partner, such as a Ministry of Health, doesn’t like you or doesn’t find you compelling, they’re not going to work with you. However, if the partner likes you, they’re typically willing to assist in any way possible. Personal dynamics matter.
What do you wish you had known or done differently throughout your career?
Not a thing. It’s been a great ride so far.
What is next for you in your career?
Keep doing what I’m doing – build a research portfolio, continue to teach, and work as a public health practitioner collaborating with community partners.
What do you do for continuing education and improvement?
Since I’m working in the Dominican Republic, I’ll probably have to learn Spanish. Since, I’m constantly running research studies, I have to stay up-to-date on the current literature. I’ve also started running my work by an external colleague for feedback. What comes back may be ego-crushing, but inevitably leads to a better product.
What advice would you offer to others?
Say yes. I’ve had opportunities that I felt I was slightly less than qualified for, but I always said yes. After acceptance, I made sure I wouldn’t disappoint. Someone took a chance on me; thus, it became my responsibility to ensure I lived up to his or her expectations.
Additionally, regardless of your professional accomplishments and personal commitments, always serve the Jamat – always. Your success is not only yours; it is critical to the upward trajectory of the community, and service is also good for your personal development. Seva will make you a better person. Always give back, and do so with grace, humility, and a touch of humor.
Areas where you can help other Ismailis:
• Guidance on careers in academia
• Assistance with doctoral applications
• Possibly engaging masters or doctoral students on select studies