Medha Shashidharan
BSc (Hons) Sport and Exercise Science (Distance Learning) student, Elite Badminton Player for India
What sparked your interest to study Sport and Exercise Science?
Even as a kid, I loved playing different sports and always enjoyed the adrenaline rush. As a badminton player competing at the elite level, injuries are part of the journey. Searching for ways to recover faster and come back stronger was what kindled my interest in Sport and Exercise Sciences. This is why I choose to study BSc (Hons) Sport and Exercise Science (Distance Learning).
Manchester Met provides one of the best part-time courses in the field of Sport and Exercise Science. It suited my requirements of being able to continue training without having to compromise on education.
What do you enjoy about your course?
I believe that the BSc (Hons) Sport and Exercise Science (Distance Learning) course at Manchester Met is perfect for those who are involved in the sports industry. It is a great course to study if one wants to expand their skills in this sector.
Being able to complete modules and assignments at my own pace is one of the biggest positives about this course. It gives me the flexibility to tailor my pace of study keeping in mind my badminton schedule.
The Faculty of Science and Engineering and my peers are very encouraging and it is nice to be able to interact with like-minded people. It provides an insight into different perspectives and enables me to pick up new ideas about various topics from fellow students.
What do you like most about the Sport and Exercise science industry?
I enjoy the diversity of Sport and Exercise Science. There is a wealth of knowledge about using different techniques to benefit athletes. Collaborating with athletes from different sporting backgrounds is a great opportunity to gain experience of working with people with a range of requirements.
The are many elements that result in a complete athlete. Nutrition, psychology, injury rehabilitation are just a few of these. I feel it is important to focus on all these aspects to improve performance and the extreme diversity of the industry is something that excites me.
What are your greatest achievements so far?
I have represented India at junior international tournaments and won many laurels at state and national levels. I have also been chosen to play in the Indian Premier Badminton League for the Bengaluru Raptors who are the current reigning champions. I was also the House Vice-Captain and Sports Captain during high school.
What are your plans for the future?
I would like to use the skills and expertise I gain from this course to help myself and other sportspeople. I plan to continue studying and researching in the field of Sport and Exercise Science and I hope to represent India and win international tournaments in the near future.