Student Profiles

I worked as a carer in the community with older chronically ill service users. This inspired my PhD topic. I had an interview where I was required to demonstrate compassion, interpersonal and practical caring skills.

I currently work as a healthcare researcher within the Q-Step Centre at Manchester Met. I independently conduct healthcare research by employing both qualitative and quantitative research methods. I review academic research around ageing, chronic illness and healthcare engagement to develop innovative research projects that aim to tell us more about the nature of engagement.

My degree provided me with a comprehensive understanding of human behaviour that has informed both my academic career and life more broadly. Above all, I learnt to independently manage my workload and made great use of Manchester Met’s brilliant facilities. I particularly enjoyed classes where students were able to debate, and express their opinions about a great number of topics from fundamentalism to socio-biology. Being encouraged to discuss different issues and to present my work was massively beneficial in terms of my confidence and resilience to constructive criticism. One of the biggest skills that I gained from my degree in sociology is my massive appreciation for different perspectives and a good understanding of factors that motivate different behaviours. This skill has enabled me to work across organisational boundaries with ease, in addition to working within different sectors where agendas differ significantly.

I didn’t have a placement as such; however I did conduct an ethnographic piece of work for my dissertation that employed participant observation methods in a small mail order company. I think it’s incredibly important for students to develop practical skills in different working environments. This will enable them to test their conceptual knowledge and develop their confidence out in the field.

Try to think about what your long-term career plan is, and actively seek part-time employment in a role that will support this progression. I worked in various roles throughout my academic career and found this experience invaluable when applying for jobs.

People who empower and support others to reach their potential.

I appreciated the high level of encouragement and support that I received from Manchester Met members of staff and continue to receive to this day.