Rocio Villacorta Linaza, currently Lecturer of Pharmaceutical Systems and STRESST Project Manager at Liverpool School of Tropical Medicine, has carved an impactful career path in the field of public health and humanitarian work.
Rocio's journey began at the University of Seville's Pharmacy Faculty, where her initial uncertainty evolved into a passion for public health during her final year. Working as a community pharmacist in Liverpool, she passed LSTM daily, nurturing her dream of contributing to the public health field. In 2006, she joined LSTM for her Master's in Humanitarian Programme Management, thrilled by the acceptance and eager to pursue her newfound passion.
Her MSc research at LSTM focused on pharmaceutical systems, shaping the trajectory of her career. Despite initial challenges in integrating the pharmacist role within NGOs and diverse countries, Rocio's background and studies at LSTM opened doors to impactful work in locations like Afghanistan, South Sudan, Algeria, Liberia, Mozambique, and Nigeria.
Her interactions with fellow healthcare professionals worldwide sparked the idea of creating a practical course on pharmaceutical systems, a dream that recently came to fruition at LSTM.
Rocio's opportunity to work in the ASCEND program and later in STRESST at LSTM allowed her to further develop her course idea with the education department, marking a significant achievement in her career.
Choosing LSTM was a natural decision for Rocio, as life brought her to Liverpool, and the university was renowned for public health studies. Her choice of the Humanitarian Programme Management course stemmed from a desire to explore public health, especially in the context of humanitarian work.
Reflecting on her time at LSTM, Rocio fondly recalls the eye-opening experience of studying and the highlight of meeting incredible course mates who became lifelong friends. One cherished memory involves studying for an exam together at the Egg Café in Liverpool, surrounded by fantastic cakes.
The LSTM education has been transformative for Rocio, impacting her professional skills, confidence, and personal goals. Studying what she loves and is passionate about at LSTM provided her with the space to learn, generate new ideas, and feel part of a committed 'family' working for a better world.
For prospective students, Rocio advises seeking opportunities to learn more about LSTM's work in various countries, emphasising the multitude of interesting projects with significant impacts on people's lives. Her career journey stands as a testament to the transformative power of education and passion in making a positive difference in the world.