Rotimi Salako

Rotimi, a career changer, shares his journey to the University of Cumbria and the motivations behind studying for a degree in Diagnostic Radiography.

Why did you choose to study your course – what or who inspired you?

I am currently a first year student studying diagnostic radiography, and my inspiration to study this course came from a personal family experience I had in 2002. This experience highlighted the work of healthcare practitioners in my community.

Why did you choose the University of Cumbria over other universities?

There are several reasons why I chose the University of Cumbria. This step is a career-changing move for me and I needed an environment where I could thrive in pursuing my long-admired career, which is diagnostic radiography. Apart from an environment where I could express myself, the university’s success stories gave me positive metrics as a yardstick of what I should be expecting toward obtaining my undergraduate degree.

How have you found your placement(s)? Where was your placement, and what was it like?

I'm looking forward to my first placement, which is coming up next month. I'm so excited to work in a real environment and put some of the techniques I learnt on campus into practice.

What challenges have you faced and how have you overcome them?

Academically, I have not encountered challenges beyond my understanding. The only challenge has been the emotional aspect of moving away from home. However, this was reduced after I started lectures. The programme engaged me and redirected my focus. In addition, closer daily interaction with tutors and students in my cohorts has helped to alleviate my worries and concerns.

How have your tutors supported you during your studies?

My tutors are always supportive. They don’t just teach; they relate with me personally, which boosts my confidence in engaging with them during lectures. Within a week of meeting my tutors, they started calling me by my name. This is very important in my learning; it shows that my tutors are interested in my career progression.

How is university life beyond your studies?

As a first-year student, I am still exploring my environment; I have been to the Lake District and have been able to enjoy some incredible scenery while travelling around the border between England and Scotland. Furthermore, staying in student accommodation as a first-year student has helped with me moving away from home; all amenities are provided in a homely setting. The kitchen is an important area, a home away from home— I have friendly flatmates from different backgrounds and ages. The most important aspect of living in student accommodation is the degree of self-care; I can develop my mind, body, and spirituality.

What would be your top tips for people thinking of doing the same course as you?

One piece of advice I can offer is to have determination. Studying in a small cohort makes the learning environment friendly and effective for interaction with your fellow students. This programme is hands-on; learning involves physical interaction with modern technology. I always look forward to the practical sessions, it makes me feel as if I am already a practicing professional.

What advice or guidance do you have for people thinking about applying for university?

It is never too late, and you are never too old, to set another goal in life. I did not have the opportunity to visit the university on an open day, so while considering my options, visiting the website gave me insight into what I could expect.

What’s been the highlight of your time at university so far?

My first semester has been great, and some of the modules are practical-orientated. The laboratory section has removed my anxiety about social norms concerning exposure to radioactive elements as a radiographer.

Furthermore, as a student ambassador, I have supported the recruitment team in interviewing over 250 applicants to study medicine at the institution in partnership with Imperial College London. This new partnership demonstrated the integrity and academic proficiency of the University of Cumbria.

Is there anything else that you’d like to add? 

Never give up on your dreams. If in doubt, the University of Cumbria will support you throughout the process of making the right choice and give opportunities to those willing and ready to make a positive change to their lives.