Acacia
Why did you choose to study Health and Social Care?
I chose to study Health and Social Care because I enjoyed it at college and was interested in pursuing it further. I have always been passionate about helping those in need and I thought that this course would allow me to learn valuable skills that I can take into the workplace.
I enjoy working with and hearing from people going through a wide range of issues, for example mental and physical health issues, which this course prepares you for. This course also provides a solid foundation for a wide range of careers within voluntary, statutory and independent sectors, which was something that appealed to me.
What stood out about the Health and Social Care course at Huddersfield?
One of the things that caught my eye even before I applied for the course was the fact that there is an integrated placement in the final year, which the other universities I applied for did not have. I knew this would help me put my skills into practice, so this gave the University of Huddersfield an edge over the other universities.
I also liked the sound of the modules on the course. For example, the work placement and social sciences modules. I think this is because I have always had an interest in social sciences and I value the experience that work placements give you.
“My course and learning support mentors have given me the tools to be able to step outside of my comfort zone and develop skills that I have previously had trouble with.”
What are the top three skills you’ve developed on your course?
The main three skills I would say I have developed across my three years on the course would be leadership, communication and adaptability.
I have developed my leadership skills through my Leadership in Health and Social Care module, where I learnt how to be confident in taking charge and leading others.
My adaptability has developed because I have had to adapt to many challenging situations. For example, focusing on multiple pieces of work at one time.
I have always lacked confidence in communication but during my time on the course, I have been able to speak up in lectures and share my ideas.
“The best thing about the Health and Social Care course is the people who teach it. My lecturers have been nothing short of amazing, providing us with the best quality of teaching and support possible.”
What has the quality of teaching been like on your course?
I have found the teaching quality to be of a very high standard. There is always an opportunity to ask questions before, during and after the lectures, which has made me feel more confident in completing the assignments.
The lecturers are supportive and have always provided us with a safe space to voice our feedback. I think it is important that when feedback has been given, it is acted on, and I feel that my lecturers do. Personally, I enjoy the seminars for lecture topics, as I feel they help me to understand what I’ve learned, in a broader context and share my ideas with others.
How have you got involved with student life at Huddersfield?
During my time at the University, I have been involved in several opportunities. For example, the Student Ambassador programme; a paid role which has allowed to share my experiences of my course with prospective students and their families.
I have also been an active member of the BAME and Women’s student networks, which I won an award for earlier this year. Being part of these networks has helped me with making lasting friendships and integrating into university life. It's also provided me with a safe space to voice my ideas and opinions, which I believe have helped improve the network events.
Last year, I was Vice President of a global society, where I got to work with different businesses and plan on and off campus events for students. I feel like this helped me to improve the way that I work with others, even if we have different opinions and ideas.
“The main advice I have for students wanting to study Health and Social Care is to make use of your lecturers - don’t be scared to ask them questions, because they want to see you thrive in the long run.”
What are you plans for the future?
As of right now, I'm unsure of my future plans, although I have some ideas. However, I am confident that I will find a suitable role and the Careers Service have been helping me to explore my options.
Are you glad that you chose the University of Huddersfield?
I am glad that I chose the University of Huddersfield, as I have been able to pursue the subject that I am passionate about, whilst being able to stay close to my family. The skills that I have gained here have been skills I wouldn’t have learned anywhere else and I have been given the tools to continue to thrive outside of university.