Boluwatife Lowen is a graduate student in public health nutrition and an Interprofessional Education (IPE) Scholar.
What do you enjoy most about interprofessional activities?
I enjoy collaborating with peers from different health professions because it allows me to see problems from multiple perspectives and learn from others’ expertise. Working together, whether in simulations, case competitions, or clinical settings, deepens my understanding of patient-centered care and strengthens teamwork skills. I particularly value the opportunity to engage with community members and patients, which helps me connect theory to real-world health outcomes. Through IPE, I’ve gained practical, collaborative experience with diverse health professionals, developing leadership, teamwork, and problem-solving skills that empower me to address complex public health challenges and create meaningful impact in my future career.
Interprofessional activities enhance my learning by integrating knowledge from multiple disciplines, including nutrition, medicine, and public health. Experiences like volunteering at the Phillips Neighborhood Clinic, participating in geriatric, Global Health case and CLARION case competitions, and collaborating on environmental health data analyses allow me to apply classroom knowledge in practical, team-based settings. These experiences teach me effective communication, shared decision-making, and culturally responsive care skills essential for addressing complex health challenges.
How do you envision incorporating what you learn through interprofessional activities into your future career?
I plan to use interprofessional skills to provide comprehensive, culturally sensitive, and sustainable care in my future career as a registered dietitian. Collaborating with healthcare professionals across disciplines will allow me to design interventions that address nutrition, health equity, and environmental sustainability. I aim to continue integrating team-based approaches in clinical, community, and public health settings, ensuring that patients receive coordinated, holistic care.