Healthcare Science Blog
Charlotte H McMillan
As a student on the Healthcare Life Sciences Programme at
Plymouth University, I have gained a wide variation of practical and
theoretical skills of which I have developed in an academic and placement
environment. What is most gratifying about being a student on the Healthcare
Science Programme is the integration of academic learning with placement
experience. Being situated in a realistic working environment is a highly
rewarding experience because I am able to apply my theory gained from
University into practice and also develop a range of unique generic and
specialist skills relevant to diagnostic medicine.
I have found the placement experience in the NHS setting to
be highly intriguing as it consistently tests my overall understanding of the
principles of diagnostic practice. It has also allowed me to appreciate the
different roles and responsibilities that are typically found in the real
working environment of the NHS Trust. What makes the placement experience more
rewarding is the fact that it has allowed me to recognise and develop my own
personal goals, such as confidence and communication skills, which in turn have
allowed me to flourish as a Trainee Healthcare Practitioner. In addition to
this I have also been able to practice within my chosen specialism of Blood
Sciences which can only be achieved in the working environment such as the NHS.
Asides from acquiring personal and scientific skills, working in the NHS
laboratories has also permitted me to build independence and team-working skills
of which are essential to Healthcare practice.
Overall my two years of study in Healthcare Science has
equipped me with a range of practical, theoretical, personal, and professional
skills, all of which are considered relevant to a career in scientific
practice. The experience I have gained to date from placement in the NHS has
only encouraged me to pursue my career in Blood Sciences Pathology, in which I
have met and worked with professionals who share the same passion as I do and
have supported me throughout my placement experience. I believe practicing in the working
environment is a highly rewarding opportunity for any student since it allows
development of a range of different skills that can only be acquired in such practice.
It can potentially establish useful contacts within the NHS which is highly
important for any individual who wishes to pursue a career in Healthcare
Science. I strongly recommend enrolling onto the Healthcare Life Sciences
Programme for any individual who is passionate about modern diagnostic
laboratory medicine, has high motivation and ambition when faced with
challenges, and wishes to work for the NHS whose aim is to provide optimal
patient care and maintain high quality standards of service.
