Can you tell us about your Sport and Exercise science Journey?  

I have always enjoyed taking part in a variety of sports including football and athletics, while also showing a keen interest in Life Sciences during my time at school. 

I decided to pursue a degree in BSc (Hons) Sport and Exercise Science to further develop a greater understanding of how anatomy and physiology can be applied to performance sports. 

I had an opportunity to coach football in California, USA and for six months following graduation in 2015 which I came across through a North American company recruiting British football coaches. This was followed by a year working in Medical Devices Consulting and another year working as a Data Analyst for an NHS trust. 

I am currently a Medical Student at Warwick Medical School and am about to start my final year. As I am in my clinical years, the majority of my time is spent in the hospital or in the community learning about pathophysiotherapy and management of disease. I have also thoroughly enjoyed teaching and mentoring junior medical students on the course.  

I am open-minded about which specialty or career path I want to pursue upon graduation from medical school. However, I have a keen interest in surgery, anesthetics and academic research. 

From the skills gained during your time at University, which have you used most in your career so far?  

Time management and the ability to work in high-pressure situations are critical for a career in medicine. Balancing my academic and vocational commitments taught me the importance of effective time management and discipline. 

Studying physiology, anatomy, biochemistry and health psychology as part of my undergraduate degree enabled me to establish a firm knowledge base in preparation for a degree in Medicine. Formulating research ideas and synthesising information from different sources during my undergraduate degree also gave me the analytical and research skills necessary to pursue an academic career. 

Outside of the course teaching, what other opportunities did you get involved in during your time at Manchester Met?   

I had several placements at a number of professional football and rugby clubs before coming across an opportunity at the orthopedics and rehabilitation department at Mid-Cheshire Hospitals during my second year. Thisexperience  provided me with an amazing insight into the medical sciences and it confirmed my decision to pursue medical school upon graduation. 

What are your greatest achievements so far?   

I am grateful for all the support from my tutors and lecturers at Manchester Met that enabled me to achieve a first-class honours degree. I have a keen interest in research and I have presented at international and national conferences. Also, I am actively involved in teaching and peer support for medical students.

What advice would you give to students who aspire to a career in Sport and Exercise Science?   

Actively seek out opportunities in whichever area interests you and keep an up-to-date CV. You can find opportunities through networking, attending conferences and career events. Work experience in a field you are interested in also plays a vital role in opening more doors for you.

What does diversity in Sport and Exercise Science mean to you?   

Diversity means providing equal opportunities for all, regardless of gender, ethnicity, sexuality etc. Doing so brings a variety of experiences, knowledge and perspectives to discussions that are crucial to cultivating conversation. 

It is vital that individuals within Sport and Exercise Science are aware of the vast range of opportunities and career options available to them within the industry which intern leads to a more diverse industry overall. 

Gain careers experience.