Tell us about your current job
I am currently working as a MSK advanced practice physiotherapist in the NHS. I see a range of musculoskeletal conditions in an outpatient setting, as well as a mentoring and teaching role for peers and junior staff.
Why the HCP-Med course?
I had always been interested in medicine, but had a great experience with physiotherapy when recovering from an injury so chose to go follow this path. I have enjoyed my career to date as a physiotherapist but it always felt like there was something missing. I wanted to be able to do more than my role allowed and looking ahead, I could not see much more progression available to me.
The opportunity the HCP-Med course offered was exactly what I wanted.
Favourite thing so far?
Residential weeks are a great time for everyone to come together to learn as a group – one of the great things about the course is the flexibility to study from anywhere. Being on campus and working in the specialist skills classrooms or spending time in the anatomy labs really makes you feel like a medical student.
How did you feel about starting the programme?
Initially I was both excited and nervous. I have worked as a physio for 10 years so was comfortable in my role – this was stepping into the unknown. But everyone in the class is in the exact same position when starting.
What are your classmates and teaching team like?
Classmates are great – they are very friendly and everyone has different backgrounds and experiences which is great for shared learning. The teaching staff are really nice and very approachable.
What are you most looking forward to?
This year I am really looking forward to our neurology module – it will be really interesting but a lot more depth than I have previously studied.
The best thing about medical school is …?
Spending time with our GP mentor in clinic – really enjoyable and constant learning in a clinical setting. They are great sources of information and the ability to discuss areas you need more support is great.
