Shining Student Bhawana Pradhan

Bhawana Pradhan's University of Lethbridge experience is marked by a dynamic fusion of public health and management studies, reflecting her ambition to contribute to the healthcare field. Choosing ULethbridge for its unique undergraduate public health program, Bhawana combines her passion for healthcare with a major in economics. One highlight of her university experience is a memorable group presentation in her first semester, where she navigated uncertainties and self-doubt to excel, instilling in her the confidence to push boundaries.

Although filled with uncertainty throughout the process, this presentation turned out better than I could have thought, rated highly by our classmates and professor. Although a small moment, this gave me confidence in my abilities to work hard even in times of uncertainty and self-doubt and to push through my boundaries of comfort.

Meet Bhawana | Adaptable. Driven. Hardworking.
Program: Bachelor of Health Science/Bachelor of Management | Major: Public Health/Economics
Hometown: Lethbridge, AB

Why did you choose ULethbridge?

I chose ULethbridge because it gave me the opportunity to combine a public health major with a major in management, both of which seemed interesting to me. ULethbridge is the only university in Alberta that offers public health as an undergraduate degree, and as someone who is interested in going into the medical field, I thought this would be a good way to enter the field.

Did you know what you wanted to study before you came to ULethbridge?

I had an idea that I wanted to go into the field of healthcare prior to studying at the University, but whether I was prepared to go into medical school was up for debate as it is a very competitive, long and incredibly difficult field. Due to this I wanted to have a degree that would allow me to work in healthcare without going to medical school, which is the reason why I chose the two different degrees I did. I still plan on working in healthcare but if anything has changed, it would be that that my desire to go into medical school is stronger.

What is your most memorable ULethbridge experience so far?

My most memorable ULethbridge experience so far is my first group presentation in my first semester. Initially, this group project was filled with uncertainty about my knowledge, my group members and my ability to do a proper job. I was stressed to be in an uncomfortable situation and lacked self-efficacy as I was the only first-year student in my group. However, as my group project progressed, each of us worked hard. Although filled with uncertainty throughout the process, this presentation turned out better than I could have thought, rated highly by our classmates and professor. Although a small moment, this gave me confidence in my abilities to work hard even in times of uncertainty and self-doubt and to push through my boundaries of comfort.

Is there anyone who has had an important influence on your ULethbridge experience?

My friends have been a huge influence, as they push me to do better and work harder. They fuel my ambition when I see them working hard to achieve theirs.

Have you received any scholarships and awards?

I have received the Chinook Scholarship, Grade 11 Merit Award, Board of Governors’ Admission Scholarship as well as the Claire Jean Goodman Scholarship in Finance and Economics from ULethbridge. These scholarships made it possible to go worry-free in paying tuition for my first year, allowing me to focus on my studies and work towards my future goals. The scholarships allowed me to achieve higher academic success and I am very grateful to the donors for all their contributions.

Bhawana is an excellent student who is extremely hard-working and caring. She has a bright future ahead. – David Kootnikoff, Department of English

What do you like to do in your free time?

My favourite things to do in my free time are playing badminton and working out at the fitness centre with my friends. I also love going to watch movies during my free time.

What are your hopes/plans for the future?

After I earn my bachelor’s, I would like to go into the healthcare field. Ideally, I would like to go to medical school and hopefully enter the field of cardiology.

What advice would you like to give those who are about to begin their journey at ULethbridge?

One bit of advice I would like to give to those who are about to begin their journey at ULethbridge is to take one step at a time. When you first enter university, it's a different world from high school, and most aspects of learning and socialization are different. Integrating into university life will be overwhelming and filled with uncertainty. So, take one step at a time, even if they are small. These steps will add up, and you'll eventually end up where you want to be.

Quick Answers

Favourite class: Introduction to Microeconomics
Favourite place to study: Science Commons