Sarah Campbell

What attracted you to this programme?

Coming from the United States, there were very few disability studies programmes and I really wanted a focus in autism. The Tizard Centre's programme combines psychology, sociology, policy and support approaches in a multidisciplinary way that values a social understanding of disability and aligned more with my personal interests and beliefs.

Which areas of study do you find particularly inspiring?

There are so many academics, practitioners and students in one location with the same passion for working with and helping to improve the lives of autistic people and people with disabilities. That is really inspiring to me. I feel very lucky to be in a community facilitated by the staff at the Tizard Centre that priorities person-centred approaches and improving quality of life in supporting others. This year I've been introduced to the neurodiversity movement within academia, specifically how autistic individuals are conducting inclusive and participatory research to better explore the community and autistic experiences.

What do you think of the teaching and study support?

Every one of my teachers has been fantastic. It is inspiring to learn from leaders in the field across many disciplines, with a wide variety of experiences and backgrounds. Each of my lecturers brings something in their practical and research experience that enhances how they teach and the information that I am learning. Learning from people from various academic and professional backgrounds has added to and emphasised the interdisciplinary nature of this program and encouraged me to broaden my understanding of the course material as a result.

Does the course allow you to pursue your own interests?

I've been able to use coursework to explore my own interests within the field, as we are often given a broad topic to consider and then can personalise it from there. For example, for my dissertation, I was able to adapt the topic of exploring 'caring' into research about sibling relationships and how autistic and non-autistic siblings show care for each other through the lens of care ethics. Not only have I been allowed to pursue my own interests, but it has been actively encouraged.

What do you think about the facilities at Kent?

The facilities at Kent help create a sense of community throughout the university. The campus is a beautiful place overlooking the city of Canterbury, with a fantastic library collection of disability-related research and publications and postgraduate specific spaces. The cafes and restaurants on campus are also a student favourite spot to study and hang out!

How has this course changed you?

Coming into the course with an ABA background, I have been exposed to a much wider scope of both support practices and theoretical backgrounds that I hope to take into my own practice to become a more well-rounded and inclusive clinician. The course has also shown me how disability is taught and talked about in the UK and how autistic individuals and people with intellectual disabilities are supported within a different culture. This has inspired me to take these approaches home to the US to improve the quality of life for people there as well.

Did you receive any careers advice at Kent?

Yes, my lecturers have been fantastic in sharing their time and reflections on their own experiences as I have been both navigating my career search and creating a long-term plan. Hearing their stories and experiences in roles that I am considering has been integral in helping me plan for my future.

What are your plans for the future?

When my programme finishes, I will be working in an ABA/VB school and preparing to become a Board Certified Behaviour Analyst. I hope to work as a practitioner and bring many of the inclusive and person-centred approaches I have learned at the Tizard Centre back to the US, where they are less commonly used. I would ultimately love to continue to research and help to expand the field of disability studies within the US by teaching. 

Any advice for prospective students?

The course relies on independent study and self-teaching, so manage your schedule and your timetable. Lecturers have high expectations because they want to help you become the best researcher and practitioner possible - they believe in you!