Sport and Exercise Science - BSc (Hons)
In seminars, we are encouraged to put forward our ideas and to listen to other people’s views, I think that’s where you really get to know people.
The University has a good reputation which attracted me and, although I’m from Portsmouth, I have family who live in the area so I know it well.
When I finished college I wasn’t too sure what I wanted to do, so I took a gap year and worked in a ski resort. I started to think about returning to education and although I’m not the greatest sportsman, I’ve always been interested in sport and enjoy it, so the idea of a career in the sports industry really appealed to me. I thought a degree in sports science would help me with that.
I have no regrets at all. It’s quite a broad course which opens up lots of opportunities after graduation.
I’ve enjoyed studying exercise physiology. This module links well with my dissertation, in which I measured the effect of two warm-up intensities, moderate and heavy, on subsequent intermittent performance – the foundations of team sport. We were interested in how warm-up exercise, and the consequent change in the oxygen uptake kinetics benefits performance. Oxygen uptake kinetics being the increase in oxygen uptake that occurs following exercise commencement. Being able to understand the science behind the processes and discovering how to apply that theory in practice is what interests me.
I took a module on exercise referral rehabilitation, where we work with special populations, such as people with diabetes, hypertension or cardiac conditions. I also worked with Parkinson’s patients helping them to maintain function through exercise in group exercise classes that are designed specifically for them. It’s a physiological and a psychological intervention. The hope is that by being in a class and meeting people, they will develop a sense of purpose which will encourage them to continue the exercises when they go home and so help them to maintain their independence.
It’s a rewarding thing to be a part of and it’s making me think about whether I want to work with elite athletes or with clinical populations. It’s not a choice I expected to have when I?started my degree but I’ve been pleasantly surprised by the opportunities available to me.
They’re very supportive, giving advice on where I should direct my learning. They’re always there when I need them.
At first, I remember being overwhelmed by the number of people that I didn’t know but there are lots of opportunities to work together in groups so you get to know everyone and feel confident working with them. In seminars, we are encouraged to put forward our ideas and to listen to other people’s views, I think that’s where you really get to know people. Lectures give you the content that forms the foundation for your learning and in seminars you develop that knowledge, gaining a deeper understanding of the subject.
The Deep End is a good place to meet people and they hold events and special nights which are fun.
As well as working with the Parkinson’s group, I’ve also been helping with exercise sessions for people who have had a stroke, which has made me think about a career in physiotherapy. I would need to take a Master’s but before I can do that I need to get some work experience in a hospital so I am working on that at the moment.
Make the most of your opportunities and get involved in university life. Put yourself out there, you’ll make lots of friends, then if you get stuck with an essay or project you’ll have people to talk to. Be confident.
