Abbey
BSc (Hons) Diagnostic Radiography
Abbey is in her final year of BSc (Hons) Diagnostic Radiography and already has a job lined up after graduation. From initially considering engineering to gaining international placement experience, she shares how she found her path – and why Bradford was the right choice for her.
This is Abbey’s story.
Choosing Radiography at Bradford was the best decision I made.
Finding the right course
"When I was at college, I wasn’t completely sure what I wanted to do."
"I studied maths, physics and biology and thought I’d probably go down an engineering route.
"Maybe something like bioengineering or medical physics.
"Everything changed when I had to choose between two work experience opportunities in the same week – one in engineering and one in radiography. I decided to try radiography, and it was honestly the best decision I could have made. I really enjoyed it, and that’s what pushed me to apply for the course."
Why I chose Bradford
"What stood out about Bradford was how accessible everything felt, especially the placement locations."
"I live in Wakefield and wanted to study at a university fairly close by so I could live at home.
"Some universities had placements spread much further out, but Bradford offered sites like Mid Yorkshire NHS Trust, which were ideal for me.
"After my interview, I attended an experience day where we were shown around the X-ray facilities and told more about the course. I really liked it straight away and knew it was the right place for me."
Learning on the course
"One of my favourite parts of the course has been the projection radiography modules."
"I’ve really enjoyed learning about anatomy, how to take X-rays, and then analysing the images.
"This year, we’ve also done image evaluation, where we look at X-rays and decide whether something is normal or abnormal.
"That’s been really interesting and has made me think more about the responsibility you have in the role.
"I also enjoy the physics side, which I know isn’t everyone’s favourite, but it’s something I’ve always liked."
Gaining real experience on placement
"Placements have been a huge part of my experience."
"We usually spent two days a week in hospital alongside our studies, which meant we were constantly applying what we learned.
"Going on placement for the first time was definitely daunting. It’s very different from observing on work experience – you’re actually getting involved and putting your knowledge into practice. But at the same time, it’s exciting.
"I’ve had placements at Mid Yorkshire hospitals and Barnsley, and I’ve really enjoyed both. You gain so much confidence and experience, and it prepares you well for working life."
Because Bradford is a smaller university, I feel like I’ve had more opportunities to get involved in things outside of lectures.
Opportunities beyond the classroom
"I helped out at a radiography conference on campus."
"This meant I could also attend talks and workshops. I’ve also reviewed a textbook for one of my tutors, which is something I never expected to do.
"The tutors are really supportive and approachable, and you get to know them well, which makes a big difference."
My placement abroad in the Philippines
"One of the highlights of my time at university was completing an elective placement in the Philippines."
"I spent four weeks there working in hospitals during the week and travelling at weekends. It was such an eye-opening experience. The way healthcare is delivered there is very different to the UK, especially in terms of resources and processes.
"Seeing those differences really broadened my perspective and helped me appreciate different approaches to patient care. It was also an amazing opportunity to experience a new culture and step outside my comfort zone."
Life as a commuting student
"I’ve lived at home throughout my studies and commuted to university."
"It takes about an hour each way, which can be tough on early mornings, especially in winter, but it’s definitely worth it.
"I’ve still made really good friends on my course and felt part of the student community. I also joined the gaming society in my second year, which was a great way to meet people and take a break from studying."
Looking ahead
"I’ve been lucky enough to secure a job in X-ray at one of my placement hospitals after I graduate."
"In the future, I’d like to gain more experience and then move into interventional radiology.
"Eventually, I’d love to go into reporting, where you analyse images and write reports on them."
My biggest piece of advice is to get stuck in, especially on placement.
My advice for future students
"It might feel intimidating at first, but it’s the best way to learn and build confidence."
"Placement is also a great opportunity to make a good impression – it’s almost like a long interview.
"I’d also say that time management is really important. Balancing placements, lectures and assignments can be challenging, so staying organised makes a big difference."
Why Bradford was right for me
"Looking back, I’m so glad I chose radiography at Bradford."
"The combination of supportive staff, practical experience and opportunities like my placement abroad has made it a really rewarding experience.
"It hasn’t always been easy, but it’s definitely been worth it."