Sam previously studied biology at university but decided he wanted to change his career path and chose to study Diagnostic Radiography after hearing positive reviews about it from people in the role.
Tell us about yourself and what brought you to thinking about university?
I have previously studied at university and gained a degree in biology. Following this I worked in several different job roles, including working in multiple secondary schools. After this experience I decided I wanted to change my career path, and spoke to several friends I know who were qualified radiographers. They were all very positive about the role and the variety it offers, and I decided it was something I wanted to pursue.
Why did you choose this course?
The course offered me a clear route into a job with roles available all across the country as well as abroad, a job which offers variety and a range of different specialities to progress along. It also offers the opportunity to work with students and teach as part of my role, something which appeals to me following my experiences tutoring and working with students previously.
I felt prepared before going on my first placement, and have always felt supported by both my clinical and personal tutors when on placement.
How has studying at University of Cumbria changed you?
Studying at Cumbria has allowed me to learn from a range of knowledgeable tutors, and has given me a grounding not just in the anatomy and physiology required as a radiographer, but also the physics and computer science behind the technology we use, as well as skills in communication and reflection needed in such a patient facing and collaborative role. I have also gained a good understanding of the different modalities within medical imaging.
What do you most like about studying at Cumbria?
I felt prepared before going on my first placement, and have always felt supported by both my clinical and personal tutors when on placement. I have always felt that I’ve made progress on each placement block, and now as a third year I feel confident and prepared to start my first post as a radiographer following graduation.
Sam using equipment in the radiography department
Sam next to one of our anatomical skeletons