Kyle was inspired to become a physiotherapist after receiving physiotherapy treatment and realising he wanted to help others reach their full potential. Read on to find out about Kyle's experiences studying Physiotherapy at Cumbria.
What inspired you to get into physiotherapy?
I was going to a physiotherapist due to a persistent shoulder injury, and the physiotherapist explained in a lot of detail what could be the issue, and that some of my symptoms were connected to a different cause and not the initial injury. The physio then proceeded to use manipulation techniques on my neck to stop numbness in my hand. This completely blew me away, her understanding and her knowledge of anatomy, as well as neural anatomy, and now – after being on the course for two years – I understand exactly what dermatomal pattern my numbness was in and which nerve route she manipulated.
I've always wanted to help people as much as possible. While training as a kayaking instructor, I realised how much I enjoyed the feeling I got when I helped people achieve goals they didn't expect to. Finding out that physiotherapists put patients at the centre of rehab and allow them to be in control while facilitating their progress, and that you can continually learn throughout your career, meant physiotherapy felt like the right choice for me.
What have the placements been like on your degree?
My first placement was in Barrow-in-Furness as a part of the stroke rehab physiotherapy team. Before the placement, I was really overwhelmed and worried that I didn't have enough experience to know what to expect, or to know how I could help. However, after the first day, my view of neurological physiotherapy completely changed. It was somewhere I could definitely see myself spending my career. Working with patients daily, and seeing their progress, was one of my favourite things. It really changed my outlook and I look forward to experiencing other areas of physiotherapy.
How have you found studying at Cumbria as a mature student?
As a mature student, I was really worried about getting into university as I had to do an access course, and I was worried I'd be really far behind with everyone who has just finished their A-levels. I was also worried about being one of the oldest and not fitting in. However, the teaching was phenomenal, and at any point if I felt like I was behind the lecturers were there to talk to me and guide me through what to do next.
The cohort also had such a huge age range that my age wasn't anything to worry about – everyone finds their group but all the physios are there for each other.
What’s been the most difficult obstacle you’ve overcome in your student journey?
The most difficult thing I've had to overcome is realising and giving myself credit for the hard work I've put in. The course is fast-paced and every now and again you get so caught up with the exams you don't realise how far you've come. It's crazy to think where I started, and how much has changed in terms of my understanding, my vocabulary and my ability to put all these skills into practice.
How have your tutors supported you during your studies?
The tutors at the University of Cumbria are incredible. I don't know how many universities you can arrive at and within a few weeks have a conversation with your lecturers about their weekend – they know you personally. They are all such a supportive team and just want the best from you. I think that's what makes the University of Cumbria so unique – the tutors.
What would be your top tip for someone about to start their physiotherapy degree?
My biggest tip for anyone once they’ve applied is to develop your confidence speaking. A lot of your exams are talking exams, which involve completely different skills than written assessments. In your career as a physiotherapist, you'll be talking to patients the whole time, so talking is good preparation.
What are your career plans?
My future career plans were working in musculoskeletal (MSK) outpatients. However, while being on the course I've learnt so much and been inspired by a variety of different areas of physio, so who knows where I'll be!
The tutors at the University of Cumbria are incredible. I don't know how many universities you can arrive at and within a few weeks have a conversation with your lecturers about their weekend – they know you personally. They are all such a supportive team and just want the best from you. I think that's what makes the University of Cumbria so unique