Amelia Cassidy

Pulmonary Rehabilitation Technical Instructor, NHS

I chose Sport and Exercise Science at Newcastle University as the course appeared varied and interesting; as well as Newcastle being a Russell Group University. There was a good mixture of practical and theory, which I thought would advance my skillset and allow me to apply the knowledge I acquired during lectures. The assessment methods were different, meaning there were some that I knew I would thrive in, and some I knew may be more challenging, which appealed to me. It definitely helped that all of the staff and technicians were approachable and helpful. There was a really good staff-student relationship which enabled me and my peers to gain additional guidance, and clear answers to any questions we had.

To enrich my university experience, I took part in fitness testing on the Rugby Union team. This involved a mixture of cognitive and physical fitness tests being performed on the team during their pre-season. This gave me the chance to practise some of the techniques that we had learnt about during our practicals and lectures. Additionally, I was a member of the Sport Science Society, running the stall at the fresher's fair and helping to plan social events.

This degree helped me to realise I was interested in the physiological side of sport, and I applied for an MSc in Clinical Exercise Physiology, in which I gained a first class honours. I knew I wanted to work within this field and my current role is a Pulmonary Rehabilitation Technical Instructor, working within the NHS on the Newcastle 'Healthy Lungs' programme. I take patients with a lung disease through their rehabilitation programme, in the form of teaching them exercise, nutrition and overall well-being. I often implement some of the topics covered in the Sport and Exercise Science course in my educational talks with patients, showing that this degree was one of the best decisions I've made!

Amelia graduated in July 2021 with a BSc in Sport and Exercise Science.