Convocation spotlight: Tara Azimi

Tara Azimi

As she celebrates completing her PhD in public health, practising psychologist Tara Azimi looks forward to a career that allows her to use all of her complementary skills — research, teaching and counselling.

What are you most proud of from your time in the program?

I am most proud of the opportunity to conduct meaningful research that gives voice to an underserved population. My dissertation, focused on the experiences and support needs of mothers of children with Type 1 diabetes, not only challenged me intellectually but also allowed me to connect with participants on a deeply human level. Despite the challenges and moments of doubt, I am fulfilled by my perseverance and commitment to seeing my PhD through, knowing the impact of this work. 

How did you stay motivated when things got tough?

I owe much of my perseverance to the unwavering love and support of my family and friends, as well as the encouragement and guidance from my supervisory committee. I also relied on small rewards, such as treating myself after reaching milestones, taking breaks to socialize with friends, and stepping away to recharge. These moments of self-care helped me maintain balance and stay focused. When things became challenging, I took a step back to reflect on the bigger picture and remind myself of the end goal.

Did you receive any financial awards through your studies?

I am incredibly grateful to have received over $85,000 in awards throughout my PhD journey. This included the Alberta Graduate Excellence Scholarship, the Women and Children’s Health Research Institute Graduate Studentship, the Public Health Doctoral Entrance Scholarship and several others. These generous awards not only provided financial support but also served as a meaningful acknowledgment of the importance of my research. I’m deeply thankful for the organizations and committees that believed in my work and invested in my success.

What advice would you give to a student entering this program? 

Approach the program with both curiosity and resilience. This journey is not just about academic achievement — it's about discovering your passion and using research to create meaningful change. Be prepared for challenges, but don’t let them deter you. Flexibility is key, and it's OK to have setbacks. What matters is how you adjust and keep moving forward. 

Surround yourself with a supportive network of peers and mentors, stay organized and celebrate small victories along the way. Also, make time for fun and prioritize self-care, whether that’s spending time with loved ones, exercising or pursuing hobbies. Taking care of yourself will help you stay energized throughout the journey. Most important, stay connected to the purpose behind your work, as that will sustain you through the toughest moments and make the journey deeply rewarding.

What comes next for you?

I aim to contribute to the health field working as a researcher and to also take on a teaching role. Alongside this, with a background in psychology I plan to continue working as a psychologist. My goal is to make a meaningful impact both in practice and by advancing knowledge in the fields of psychology and public health.