As part of our Spring Convocation 2026 coverage, we asked graduates from our six Schools to share their experiences of completing a degree in McGill’s Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences. Here, we meet Class of 2026 member Stephen Benyi Johnson from the School of Population and Global Health. Stephen completed his Master of Science in Public Health and received his degree at the Spring Convocation Ceremony on May 26. Congratulations Stephen!
Name: Stephen Benyi Johnson
Degree: Master of Science in Public Health
Hometown: Mankessim, Ghana
What did you love most about studying in the Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences?
I love how McGill challenged me. As an international student from Ghana, I anticipated some difficulties, but I was underprepared for how challenging learning at McGill was going to be. And I loved that.
I loved how well structured and comprehensive the academic programs are at McGill, including the MSc in Public Health. What is taught in the classroom is practical, so it actually prepares you for the job market. I say this confidently because most of the answers I gave during my job interview came directly from the experience I acquired from class projects.
If you could change one thing in the world, what would you choose?
I would make access to opportunity more equal; more equitable, even.
As a public health graduate, I have learned that where a person is born and their socioeconomic status greatly affect their health, education and future. Talents exist everywhere, but opportunities do not. Many individuals with incredible potential are limited by poverty, poor healthcare systems and lack of access to education.
I believe the world would be better if everyone had a fair chance to succeed and live with dignity.
Was there a particularly proud or challenging moment during your time at McGill?
During my first semester, I failed my inferential statistics test. I am on a fully funded scholarship, so you can imagine how scared I was of losing my funding!
When I met with my program advisor, I learned I would have to retake the class if I failed my end-of-semester exam. Adjusting to a new academic environment was already challenging, and that moment made the pressure feel even heavier. But I gave it my all and earned an A in inferential statistics. Ironically, the semester that challenged me the most became the one that made me the proudest of my resilience and growth.
Your favourite place to hang out?
My favourite place on campus was the 11th floor of the McGill College 2001 building, where most of my classes were held and where my department was located.
I spent hours there studying, working on assignments and chatting with my classmates in the cafeteria. Those conversations between classes and long study sessions became some of my favourite memories from graduate school.
Looking back, that space became more than just a study spot; it felt like a small community away from home.
What phrase defines your past few years as a student at McGill?
“I will figure it out…eventually.”
Any shoutouts?
I would like to give a special shoutout to the Mastercard Foundation advisors for their incredible support throughout my journey at McGill. From their warm hugs to their constant advice, encouragement and guidance, they have truly been like family to me since the day I arrived. Being far away from home can be difficult, but they created a sense of community and belonging that made the experience much easier and more meaningful.
I also want to sincerely thank Joanna Merckx, MD, Assistant Professor, Department of Epidemiology, Biostatistics and Occupational Health, for her encouragement and support, especially during my job interview process. Her belief in me and willingness to guide me gave me confidence during an important moment in my career journey, and I am deeply grateful for that support.
Finally, I would like to thank Aviane Auguste, PhD, Assistant Professor, Department of Epidemiology, Biostatistics and Occupational Health, for his mentorship, counsel and supervision throughout my studies. He has been a great source of support and guidance, always willing to share his knowledge and encourage my academic and professional growth. His mentorship has had a meaningful impact on my journey.
Your op tip for incoming students in your program?
Don’t be too hard on yourselves. No matter how difficult things may seem, you will figure them out eventually.
What’s next for you?
I will soon start a new role as a Health Promotion Specialist in Sault Ste. Marie, Ontario. I’m really excited for this next chapter because it allows me to apply everything I learned at McGill to support communities and promote better health outcomes.
Public health has always been about making a meaningful impact. I look forward to growing professionally, learning from the community and contributing in a way that truly makes a difference.