Alumni profiles - Ioannis Stamos

MSc Advanced Manipulative Physiotherapy, 2011 

Owner of private practice in Athens

The best part was the learning experience and support I received from my instructors. My teachers made me realise that if you are determined then the things you can achieve are endless."

Nationality

Greek

How has your career developed since graduating from the University of Birmingham?

In a country facing tremendous difficulties from the economic recession, my postgraduate degree has helped me stand out. It boosted my confidence in my skills and encouraged me to start my own private practice which is now one of the busiest in Athens. The quality of my work has increased and the people I treat are much more satisfied with the level of care they are receiving. By applying the new things I have learned, I am now in a position to offer my services to national athletes, professional sports teams as well as martial arts world champions.

What is the best thing about the job you are doing now?

That it has become multi-dimensional. Before my degree I was used to working in a very limited and, in many cases, ineffective way. My MSc exposed me to all the new knowledge that is available. Apart from the satisfaction I am getting from making a patient better, the thing I enjoy the most is that I am constantly learning. Evidence based practice has taught me that even difficult cases can be broken down and every mistake is a chance to learn and improve.

Why did you originally apply to do your chosen course at Birmingham?

The level and reputation of the lecturers teaching the programme. The reputation of the University itself was important of course, but to me the decisive factor was that I would get the chance to learn from the best.

What did you think were the best points of the course and the University?

The best part was the learning experience and support I received from my instructors. When I first compared my level to that of my fellow students I almost got depressed! My teachers made me realise that if you are determined then the things you can achieve are endless.

What advice would you give to current students studying on the course?

It is a long road that will be bumpy at times but the view is amazing and the destination breath-taking!

How did you grow as a person by studying at University?

It made me realise that one can constantly get better. By being given the right tools and being taught how to use them, there are very few things a person cannot achieve.