Relocating from London to Cumbria to study as a mature student was a big step for Ebai – but also an exciting one. Below, she talks about how the University of Cumbria’s supportive learning environment and close-knit community helped build her confidence and ease the transition back into learning. Ebai also mentions how the University of Cumbria has provided a positive and encouraging setting that has helped her develop both personally and professionally.
Why did you choose to study your course – what or who inspired you?
I chose to study Diagnostic Radiography as I have always been interested in healthcare, science, and its direct influence on human lives. I found the course interesting as it comprises technical knowledge, patient care, and practical skills.
The other main aspect that I enjoyed is how radiographers can be a part of multidisciplinary teams of health providers because they can play an essential role in diagnosing, treatment and assisting patients in challenging life stages.
Why did you choose the University of Cumbria?
The University of Cumbria’s good reputation in healthcare programs made me feel at ease when making my decision. I also appreciate the fact that they offer a favourable learning environment, with smaller class sizes and a focus on practice and placement.
What have been your favourite experiences at Cumbria?
The sense of community is one of my most preferred things about studying at Cumbria. I have established a great relationship with both the academics and members of the local community which has made my course experience significantly easier to enjoy and something I feel confident about.
I have especially found practical learning experiences especially rewarding, as theory is put into practice and we can demonstratively practice skills in a facilitated and supervised setting.
Placements have been an important and valuable part of my degree. This interaction in real clinical facilities has not only enabled me to develop my technical competence, but also my communication, professionalism and ability to cope with pressure.
What do you enjoy most about your course?
The thing I like most in my course is its diversity. The balance between the academic learning, practical skills and communication with patients makes me love how no two days are similar.
The course is constantly putting me to the test; however, it also reminds me why I started to want to do this profession in the first place.
How have your tutors supported you during your studies?
The University of Cumbria tutors have been very supportive during all my studies. They are friendly, well learned, and sincerely interested in the success of the students. They have been instrumental in my development, either by academic counselling, by helping me in places where I needed it, or even by encouraging me personally.
How is university life beyond your studies?
Through my studies and living in Lancaster, I have been able to build new relationships, and live a more peaceful and less distracted life, unlike the big towns I used to live in. I have also enjoyed the ability to balance between my studies and my well-being.
What would be your top tips for people thinking of doing the same course as you?
To those contemplating the course of Diagnostic Radiography, I think my best piece of advice that I can now give is to make sure that you stay organised, ask questions early, and believe in the process.
It is a tough course, but it is also an extremely rewarding course. It is a challenging course, yet it is also very fulfilling. You should never be afraid to commit mistakes once you begin to do so, this is the only way that you can learn and develop.
What are your career plans, and how is your course preparing you for your future career?
In the future, my professional ambition is to become a qualified radiographer and further grow professionally in the healthcare industry.
This course is equipping me to be ready in all respects since it is giving me the clinical skills and professional standards along with confidence to be successful in a fast-paced clinical setting.