The University of Minnesota Scholars Academy inspired Aigerim Sipenova to apply for a Ph.D. program in cancer epidemiology in her home country of Kazakhstan. Sipenova arrived in Minnesota in May 2024 to complete a research internship, analyzing data from the National Research Oncology Center in Kazakhstan, where she previously worked as a research department specialist.

“The Scholars Academy was an exact fit to what I wanted to learn and gain,” Sipenova said.

Analyzing cancer data from Kazakhstan

At the University of Minnesota, Sipenova has been collaborating with Rebecca Wurtz, Distinguished University Teaching Professor in the School of Public Health, to analyze her data on the treatment experiences, complications, and survival rates of cancer cases in Kazakhstan. She has also consulted with faculty and graduate students in the department of biostatistics on her data sets.

Sipenova has already found that cancer survival rates in Kazakhstan are comparable to in the U.S.

“In Kazakhstan, they use other medical standards for treatments and procedures,” she said. “I think by comparing the results we can come to the understanding that even though we use different medical standards, the survival rates are the same.”

She noted that Kazakhstan is one of the largest countries in the world by area, but has a population of only 20 million people. Therefore, data is limited, making research like hers critical.

“Showing the results of a country in Central Asia, that is developing rapidly, is crucial for the region,” Sipenova said. “We can share our experience with other countries. In Central Asia, there are other countries that have the same history of becoming independent just recently.”

Sipenova has been taking full advantage of the University’s resources to support her research.

“I feel like I’ve been able to find answers to all my questions,” she said. “From biostatistics consultations to conversations with professors about their work, I’ve gained tools and ideas that have helped me grow in my research and career. Being so close to the Mayo Clinic, the best hospital in the world, and hearing from professionals at major organizations like the CDC, WHO, and NIH has been an experience I will never forget.”

Attending the American Public Health Association’s annual meeting was a highlight of her time here.

“I had the opportunity to present my research and connect with public health experts from around the world,” Sipenova said. “This experience has inspired me even more to contribute to public health and make an impact.”

“A dream come true”

Sipenova came to Minnesota with her two daughters, who are now 11 and 12. Attending local schools has helped them advance their English skills.

“I grew up watching American movies, showing a lot of sports, American schools, kids having fun,” Sipenova said. “At that point in time I didn’t have any idea that my kids would be able to experience American schools themselves. For the ‘90s kid, it’s kind of a dream come true.”

The family has also been enjoying the more relaxed and open culture.

“People are loud. They express themselves as they want,” Sipenova said. “Now we have gotten used to how people express themselves freely. It’s cool to kind of ‘unfold’ ourselves too.”

The University itself was a bit of a culture shock as well. Sipenova was amazed with its size and its important role in the community.

“At first, I thought, ‘Does the university own the city?’” Sipenova laughed. “But more than its size, it’s the opportunities here that stand out. The University of Minnesota has given me so much—not just new knowledge, skills, and connections, but also inspiration. It has shown me what is possible when people work together to improve health and well-being around the world.”