Zainab came from Oman to study our BSc (Hons) Prosthetics and Orthotics. She's now in her fourth year of being a Strathclyder, here she tells us about her experience...
What were your reasons for deciding to study Prosthetics and Orthotics?
My mum introduced me to Prosthetics and Orthotics as she works alongside people with disabilities. She mentioned how much of a great impact and difference I could make in their lives and how rewarding it would be to be able to assist them and provide them with a better quality of life. This motivated me to join the course and find out if this was the career path for me. I have really enjoyed the course and throughout my four years of studying at Strathclyde it has confirmed that I made the right choice and this is the career I want.
How did you first hear about the University of Strathclyde?
I first heard about the University of Strathclyde when I was searching for the best universities that deliver Prosthetics and Orthotics study, and Strathclyde was ranked as one of the best. I ultimately chose Strathclyde as it was ranked so highly for Prosthetics and Orthotics.
What do you like about your course?
I like that the course isn't just theoretical, it involves clinical and technical practical skills which makes it unique and always exciting. In addition, it is considered as a biomedical engineering course, so it feels like a mixture of both medicine and engineering – in which case I found learning about both worlds extremely interesting. The course is also very rewarding when you visualise the amount of positive impact you can make in your patients’ lives.
Have you had any placements or internships during your studies?
I have had two clinical placements as part of my course as it is a dual degree. My Orthotics placement was in Edinburgh, and I am currently in London for my Prosthetics placement.
Have you used many of the facilities that Strathclyde has to offer to students?
I have used the Strathclyde library a lot during my studies. I have been able to use many of the resources on offer to students here, such as researching information needed for my classes in the books and journals, using the printing services, and meeting with my classmates in the group study rooms. I have also made use of the sports facilities on offer to students in the new Strathclyde Sport building, and have attended the gym there with my friends.
What has been your favourite aspect about studying at Strathclyde?
My favourite part about studying at Strathclyde is that I have been able to meet the best people and made great friends, who are now more like a family to me. Our course cohort is small, consisting of less than 40 people in my year, so everyone knows one another and we always help each other out. The staff in my department are very supportive, education wise and also personally, which has made studying and attending university a wonderful experience for me.
What do you think of Glasgow/Scotland, and what do you like about living here?
Scotland is a beautiful country with really friendly people. I loved the fact when I first arrived here that everyone was welcoming, both at the university and in my accommodation, which made settling down in Glasgow a smooth process. It has also been great to meet so many people from different backgrounds and cultures whilst studying here. I am also a person who loves to travel and explore, so I have taken advantage of the great transport links that Glasgow has. I have been able to visit lots of different cities in the UK with my friends. I am also a bit of a foodie and love trying new cuisines, and so Glasgow has been great as it has so many restaurants to choose from!
Would you recommend Strathclyde to other people and why?
I would definitely recommend for other people to come to Strathclyde to study Prosthetics and Orthotics. It has been a great learning experience for me, and this is mainly down to the extremely qualified and supportive staff in the Department. It has also made a big difference how easily it has been for me to make friends here, who I have been able to spend so much time with and enjoy my time here.
