BSc Physiotherapy (Hons)
Physiotherapy Internship with Royal Ballet
I found being able to initially learn the course theory and then apply it in various practical placement environments invaluable."
What are you currently doing and who are you working for?
I am currently waiting to start a 6-month physiotherapy internship at Birmingham Royal Ballet (starts in January 2014).
Since graduation, I have travelled SE Asia with a group of friends for two months – which was amazing. Since returning, I was hired by a local recruitment agency and did a couple of months of temporary reception work at oil and gas companies. Since then, I have taken up a child-minding job until I leave in January 2014.I am currently a Principal Physiotherapist at Alexandra Hospital, Singapore. I have been working here since 2011 managing the hospital's Orthopaedic Physiotherapy Team.
Which course did you study at the University of Birmingham and how it benefited you?
BSc (Hons) Physiotherapy, 3 years. The course is basically about studying the maintenance and restoration of normal movement and function in various different patients.
I found being able to initially learn the course theory and then apply it in various practical placement environments invaluable. Clinical placements really gave me an insight into how working as a physiotherapist will be. In addition to gaining the obvious physiotherapy-relevant skills, I feel that I have really developed my inter-personal and literacy skills.
What made you to decide to study at the University of Birmingham rather than in your home country?
Physiotherapy courses in Scotland (home) are all four years long whereas in England they are 3 years, which appealed to me. In addition to this, I had read and heard that University of Birmingham was a good reputable place to study a Physiotherapy degree. Furthermore, I loved the campus and surrounding city.
How did you find your first year in Birmingham?
I found first year quite tough. I was expecting a break and all fun following final year at school. However, the physiotherapy timetable was very busy and the volume of work to learn was very large!
Despite this, I still had an amazing first year, I loved halls and I made lots of new friends.
How did going to University as a whole benefit you?
I have gained and developed so many skills. I have made so many friends and developed some strong friendships. Clinical placements allowed me to gain an insight into the reality of working as a physiotherapist, which assured me that I am in the right profession and it has also motivated me to go on to pursue and enjoy my own career as a physiotherapist.
How did you find campus life?
The campus is lovely to look at and is located only a few miles away from the city centre meaning it is close enough to have easy access without being too close to be bombarded with traffic when getting around.
How did you find living in Birmingham?
I loved living in Birmingham. It is a lovely big city with lots going on. It is similar to what I expected – just a lot bigger! The student community is large and has many very active and involved individuals.
Did you join any student societies or take part in any events during your studies?
I joined Med Soc. (Medical Society for Medics, dentists and physiotherapists) and attended a couple of their events. In hindsight, I wish that I had joined a sports society as all of my friends that did loved it, met even more new people and frequently had events to attend.
Any tips or words of wisdom that you would like to pass on to other students thinking of coming to study here?
Words of wisdom: ‘Work Hard, Play Hard.’ It is so important for students to ensure that they achieve a balance between doing their best in their degree, which is after all the main reason they are at university, and their social life. The workload can be intense at times but be sure to really enjoy the city nightlife, attractions, social events and meeting of new friends!
What are your aspirations for the future?
I aspire to become a successful physiotherapist - possibly specialising in the prevention and rehabilitation of various sporting injuries.