Ben Spriggs

How did you get into Physiotherapy?

I’d always wanted to go into a people-facing profession and greatly enjoyed playing various sports at school. Combining this with my love for biology, and the sciences more generally, it felt like a great fit! Having my own experiences of working with physios only made me even more sure it was what I wanted to do.

Why did you choose Birmingham?

After taking a tour around the stunning campus on open day I very much felt at home in a green space in a city with every amenity imaginable. Having great links with fantastic teaching hospitals in and around Birmingham was also a major factor in my decision, as was the Sportex school’s world-renowned reputation for research and teaching.

How have you found managing your time?

Initially, the step-up from school to university appeared intimidating, and indeed it certainly was a change. However, the university, college, and school have lots of services in place to assist in managing workload and help you throughout this transition. In particular, my academic tutor has been a fantastic source of guidance for all aspects of university life.

Top tips for starting university:

1. Join a society- whether it’s continuing practicing a skill or playing a sport, or trying something totally new, societies are a great way to meet like-minded people.
2. Meet your academic tutor as soon as you can- they have a wealth of knowledge and building rapport with them straight away only makes it easier when the time comes to get some help!
3. Explore the city- Birmingham has so much to offer, it’s not just bars and clubs, but amazing country parks and picturesque villages only a short train-ride away.

What are your plans after graduation?

I’m hoping to spend a ski season working in Japan before applying for the next round of Band 5 Physiotherapist roles in the NHS, with the goal of specialising in intensive care eventually.