Avi Dravid

London School of Economics Postgraduate Award, London School of Economics - Political Science

I was born and raised in the northern suburbs of Chicago and recently graduated summa cum laude from Northwestern University with a B.A. in Political Science and Biology. I have fond memories of volunteering at my grandfather’s charity medical clinic when visiting my relatives in rural India, spending time with patients and getting to hear their stories. I saw first-hand how economic realities shape the quality of healthcare. During my time at Northwestern, I was extensively involved in a student-run policy journal, an international service organization, and the campus Political Union. I also conducted neurobiology research throughout the academic year. I explored my combined interests in health and policy matters through an independent research project in Ethiopia, examining the political pressures on aid organizations operating in the adjacent conflict zones of South Sudan and Somalia. I hope to develop strategies to facilitate expedient delivery of care in areas experiencing social upheaval. My ultimate goal is to participate in humanitarian initiatives as a physician. It is an honour to continue my academic development as part of the Fulbright Programme. I will study how health outcomes are tied to broader questions about state-building, conflict, and economic growth. In my free time, I enjoy riding motorcycles, going fishing, and playing the guitar. I look forward to finding new fishing spots in the UK, exploring the British countryside, and attending rock concerts.