SF AHEC Scholars: Meet Hamsa Parab!

Hamsa Parab (She/Her) is a First-Year Master’s in Public Health Candidate at the University of San Francisco. She recently began her journey as one of SFCCC’s 2026-2028 AHEC Scholars, and is projected to finish the program in June 2028.

Why did you become or want to become an SF AHEC Scholar?

I wanted to become an AHEC scholar to join the community of professionals in San Francisco putting in the work to make healthcare more accessible, affordable, and patient-centered. Public health is a big passion of mine, so I am excited to bring my knowledge and skills to the table to work on a local community project! 

How has the AHEC Scholars program prepared you or will prepare you for success in your health professional career? 

The AHEC program provides a cohort of like-minded individuals in school and at work motivated by the drive to educate themselves on improving clinical and health patient experience! I am sure having this intensive network, 1:1 mentorship, and the opportunity to do real work in my community will make me a successful public health professional and provider in the future. 

What advice/recommendations do you have for other students trying to pursue a career in healthcare/public health/community health?

I would say experience is the most important. And I don’t mean doing things just for your resume, but genuinely exploring to understand what patient populations, specialties, and aspect of healthcare speaks to you! There are a lot of mediums in the field where you can find a role that balances the amount of clinical/patient oriented vs administrative/research duties you hope to do! Stay curious, stay alert, and remember that there are always people and spaces that could use your help!