Maddie Rockliffe-King
Maddie outlines the wide range of experience she gained during her studies.
Research Assistant, Newcastle University
Maddie is due to start a Physiotherapy MSc with Northumbria University.
Why did you choose to study at Newcastle University?
The primary reason I chose to study at Newcastle University was because of its outstanding academic reputation in my chosen field, Sports Science. As I am originally from Cumbria, I always wanted to go to university in the North of England with great sports facilities and easy access to the coast and beaches. Choosing to go to Newcastle was an easy decision!
What did/do you love about Newcastle University?
During my time at Newcastle University, I absolutely loved everything the City and the campus had to offer. I particularly cherished the sense of community at the university, where events like the volleyball and pizza nights helped me connect with both students and staff in a social setting helping me build the friendships and professional relationships that I still value greatly.
What did you enjoy most (or least!) about your course?
I really enjoyed the range of learning opportunities available through my course, especially the chance to participate in career-related activities on the career’s module. This experience was invaluable and gave all of us practical skills that we could apply post-graduation and showcase on our CVs. It was amazing to gain hands-on experience through this module, start building professional networks through LinkedIn, and connect our experiences to skills through reflective logs.
How did your course and experiences at Newcastle University prepare you for your current role?
I feel lucky that my course at Newcastle University provided me with essential skills—such as coding, Excel proficiency, and core subject knowledge—that are directly applicable to my role as a Research Assistant. Through collaborative projects, presentations, and managing deadlines, I also developed strong interpersonal, organisational, and communication skills. These experiences have created a solid foundation for both my professional work and postgraduate studies.
Tell us a little bit about career journey. How did you get into what you do now?
In my final year, I applied for a role as a leisure assistant at a local sports centre and was immediately offered a promoted position of Duty Manager. Taking on this role, despite the increased workload, was a significant career decision, as it significantly broadened my CV even before graduating. It allowed me to gain key qualifications, including my Personal Training certification, Level 2 Swimming Teaching, and Lifeguarding. These qualifications ultimately strengthened my MSc application for Physiotherapy, even though I hadn’t yet realized that this was the path I wanted to take.
My final-year research project, exploring the topic of Mental Imagery, also played a crucial role in shaping my career direction. Midway through the year, an opportunity arose to apply to join research team at Newcastle University, working on an international study alongside a team at a well- known university in Australia. The research for my dissertation was directly relevant to the research project which is focused on using electroencephalogram (EEG) to predict the outcomes of a home-based intervention for children with motor and attentional deficits. This fed directly into my growing interest in neuro-related studies. My application was successful!
Helping to manage this research project combined with my passion for understanding human physiology and the brain-body connection has led me to where I am today — balancing my MSc studies with my role as a research assistant on this pioneering project. I now have a clear career goal of becoming a Neuro Physiotherapist. It’s an exciting journey, and I’m looking forward to what lies ahead in this fast-evolving field!
What do you enjoy most about your current job?
What I enjoy most about my current job as a research assistant is how well it interrelates with my postgraduate studies and future career aspirations in Neuro Physiotherapy. The roles are mutually-reinforcing which is really interesting and rewarding. It also allows me to continue being involved in international research directly related to my passion for neuro-physiotherapy and helps me, stay connected to the latest developments in the field.
What other things did you do at university which helped you to get where you are now?
Once I started thinking about pursuing a Physiotherapy MSc, I reached out to practicing physiotherapists to learn more about this as a career, take up shadowing opportunities, and gain some hands-on experience in real world situations. This really helped to confirm that it was the right path for me, but it also gave me an edge in the application process as I could demonstrate real insight into Physiotherapy practice.
On the social side, through playing hockey as an under-graduate, gym sessions and taking part in athletics I made some great friends and have been able to keep a healthy work-life balance. It is something I’ve maintained ever since, helping me keep fit, avoid burnout, and stay motivated.
What one piece of advice do you wish someone had given you when you first started?
Get involved! Societies, sports teams, and extra-curricular activities are an amazing way to meet people, develop new skills and support wellbeing. Also, there are many more places to go for long walks other than Jesmond Dene and the beach! Some of my recommendations include: Chopwell Woods, Bolam Lake and exploring Northumberland.
What support do you wish you had when you first started? And are there any resources that you would recommend to people?
When I first started, I wish I had known more about the University’s Careers Service and all that they offer including great support with CV writing, interview practice, conducting job searches, information on graduate courses and useful resources for those looking to start their own business. I believe being aware of and accessing this service at the start of my under-graduate experience would have helped me identify possible career pathways in Sports and Exercise Science at an earlier stage. I’d recommend that all first students look into this at an early opportunity!
Maddie graduated in July 2023 with a BSc in Sport and Exercise Science.