Simon Tiek

St Cross for Africa (AfOx)

Joining us from: South Sudan

MSc in International Health and Tropical Medicine (2024)

My academic interest lies in infectious disease epidemiology, policy and research, and particularly malaria. The programme has been an eye-opening opportunity for me as it introduced new concepts and perspectives, and this has widened my horizons. 
I am now not only interested in infectious diseases but also policy and health system preparedness.

I have taken a research placement in Bogotá, Colombia, to work on Chikungunya virus and its lineages. This has been one of the highlights of my programme.

This scholarship has been a life-changing opportunity for me. Without it, I would not be at Oxford. I am grateful for the opportunity to study at one of the most prestigious universities in the world. The scholarship has also provided me with an amazing opportunity to meet people from all over the world, because of this, I now have lifelong connections.

I have enjoyed being at St Cross College and interacting with the community. Every time I visit the College, I make new friends and meet amazing people. St Cross has been a home away from home for me.

Outside my studies, I enjoy going to University Parks, the Botanical Garden, and going out with friends. I enjoy punting, especially in summer when Oxford looks even more beautiful.