What have you been doing since graduation?

Since graduating I’ve joined the NHS graduate management training scheme, on their general management stream. I have recently finished my first year-long placement on the scheme, working as a Strategic Business Manager. I worked in a community trust on projects including clinical productivity, time and motion studies, reducing ‘did not attend’ rates, and communications/engagement for site moves.

As part of the scheme you also have a secondment, which I am currently completing with PwC in their workforce transformation team. At PwC I am working with different clients to improve their people functions.

Shortly, I will be commencing my final placement on the scheme, with a mental health and social care trust. I will be working operationally within the acute mental health services. Alongside the placements, I am studying for the Elizabeth Garrett Anderson Programme for a Postgraduate Diploma in Healthcare Leadership.

How have you found this role and what have been your favourite parts?

The NHS graduate scheme is proving to be a rewarding role. I am particularly enjoying the variety the scheme offers because it facilitates constant learning, collaboration with many different people, and thinking creatively to solve complex problems. The opportunity to try and make a positive impact within a variety of healthcare settings is my favourite aspect of the scheme.

How do you feel your degree has prepared you for this scheme?

Studying Health and Medical Sciences at Warwick helped develop my holistic understanding of healthcare not only within the UK but also globally. My degree has also prepared me well for undertaking further studies. Other skills which I found useful when transitioning into the workplace include presentation abilities, data analysis, and team working.

What are your ambitions for the future?

I look to progress my leadership abilities and continue to contribute to healthcare settings from a management perspective. I would like to continue to build my experience by working with different teams across a broader variety of NHS trusts. I am also keen to convert my postgraduate diploma into a masters qualification.

Do you have any advice for students considering BSc Health and Medical Sciences?

If you are keen to learn both about traditional medical sciences as well as wider components of health I would really recommend this course. I enjoyed subjects including public health, health psychology, health economics, health law and much more during my time at Warwick. I feel that the range of these topics has facilitated a broader understanding of the complexities within health. My advice for any students studying the course would be to get involved wherever you can!