In 2010, Karen completed her Bachelor’s Degree with Merit in Arts and Social Science (Sociology) from the National University of Singapore. Upon graduation, Karen joined the Singapore Corporation of Rehabilitative Enterprises (SCORE) – a statutory board under the Ministry of Home Affairs, with the aim to assist offenders and ex-offenders to reintegrate into the society upon release. While working with offenders and ex-offenders for 5 years, Karen grew to understand the importance of the family system and available social policies to better assist the disadvantaged and needy who are left behind by the society. In 2014, Karen pursued a second degree in Social Work with the National University of Singapore, to improve and support her work in the social service industry. Hereafter, Karen worked for a year as a Social worker in a Family Service Centre (FSC), where she supported and counselled families in need, from various racial and religious groups, facing issues such as financial instability, family violence, family conflict, suicide ideation, elderly issues and emotional issues. While working, she developed an interest in health issues such as different healing methods, the accessibility and affordability of medical treatment as well as the societal impact on individuals’ health, as these are the common issues faced by her clients. Karen believes that the MAHASSA programme will provide her with the opportunity to broaden her knowledge and theoretical understanding towards Medical Anthropology and South Asia. With the knowledge gained, Karen will be better equipped to support and help disadvantaged families across various societies.
