Why I chose Paramedic Science: Poppy

What is your favourite memory of your course?

My first day was nerve-wracking – I was commuting in and had easily found a parking spot in one of the larger car parks available on campus. I felt a little bit more reassured when I walked into my first-ever lecture, and it was filled with other nervous people who glanced up and greeted me with smiles and small talk. Luckily for me, the cohort I joined was mostly mature students, but there were some fresh-faced school leavers – everyone came from all walks of life and had interesting backgrounds, and the support provided for those re-entering education has been invaluable.

This is not the only area of the University to provide support. There is academic help available in the library with the subject librarians, who help with referencing and finding useful sources, and there is also help available from MyBradford for other matters, such as your mental health and anything else you may need help with whilst you're studying at Bradford.

Why did you choose it?

When I started my course, I didn’t know what to expect. Prior to applying, I had been out of education for several years and in full-time work. As a mature student, I was apprehensive about starting a completely new experience. I was worried that I wouldn't be able to adjust to the learning environment again, or that everyone was going to be fresh out of school, and I wouldn’t know where to go and what to do. But I know now that those worries were for nothing, and everything turned out just fine.

I knew that Paramedic Science was what I wanted to do, and after attending an open day, I knew Bradford was where I wanted to do it. From the new dedicated teaching facilities to the supportive and knowledgeable lectures, it felt like the right fit for me.

What are you hoping to do with your degree once you’ve graduated?

One of the standout reasons I chose to study at Bradford was because of the placement year. Throughout the academic year, I have been able to go on various clinical placements with the Yorkshire Ambulance Service, in care homes, and with different children’s services. I am even more excited to have the opportunity to work a full year on placement to gain a deeper understanding and gain more knowledge about my future career before I even graduate!

Once I graduate, I hope to work for the Yorkshire Ambulance Service. So, by doing my placement year with them, it gives me the perfect chance to demonstrate my abilities to a potential future employer and to see what it's like to work for them too.

Are there any standout things about your course?

The people. The lecturers at the University, all with backgrounds in paramedicine, have brought a huge amount of experience and knowledge to the table from a variety of roles. They understand both the practical aspect of the job and the academic side of the degree and therefore situate themselves well to assist with all aspects of the university experience.

When the University upgraded its paramedic facilities, it meant that there was plenty of space to practice key skills with the rest of my cohort – I believe being able to practice my skills gives me the confidence to apply all my learning to real-life situations.

Moreover, the University has excellent extracurricular activities and societies for you to join. There is something for everyone, from sports teams to a baking society, and plenty of opportunities to make new friends and enjoy yourself. The Student Union bar is also a great place to grab a quick drink with your mates at the end of a busy week, and you might even spot a lecturer or two doing the same!

Overall, the University has been fantastic, and I am so glad I chose to attend and start my journey towards an incredible career.

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