The teaching staff on my MSc Occupational Therapy programme at the University of Cumbria were engaging and supportive, and the assignments offered the flexibility to research and write about topics I genuinely cared about, in a way that worked for me.
Based on my undergraduate dissertation experience, I had been dreading this part of the course from the start; however, it ended up becoming my favourite part of the two years.
I discovered a love for research I didn’t know I had. I went on to present my work at the RCOT Research Conference, submit the paper for publication, win the RCOT Early Career Research Award, and continue collaborating with the university on further research projects (this time as a paid role) in the years following graduation.
Placements were another source of anxiety before I began the course. It’s fair to say that not every placement suited me, but this gave me the chance to rule out areas I didn’t want to work in and discover my passion for paediatrics. That passion led to my first role as a qualified Occupational Therapist.
Since then, I have progressed through Band 6 and am now a Band 7 Clinical Lead for an NHS Children’s Therapy service, specialising in complex neurological and long-term conditions – with the occasional bit of research on the side when opportunities arise!
My path wasn’t exactly conventional, but I’m incredibly grateful for where it led me. I honestly love being an Occupational Therapist. Despite every moment of doubt along the way, I know it was the right move for me.