January 18, 2023

Current Bradford University students: Justin Joseph, Amanta Cuhaldina and Abbie Martin with Bradford University Outreach Manager Caroline Priestley

On 18 January, we welcomed Bradford University students Abbie Martin, Amanta Cuhaldina and Justin Joseph, who shared with current students their experiences of studying healthcare related degrees at university, how they got there and their career pathways after sixth form. Amanta and Justin are alumni of Elliott Hudson college who were excited about coming back and sharing their student journey with our current Year 12 and 13s.

“It feels weird being back, but it’s nice to be back. The atmosphere is still as welcoming as it was, ” says Justin, who, left Elliott Hudson College in 2018 and now studies Chemistry. “I’m looking forward to talking to the students about how to get the most out of university through opportunities like being a university student ambassador.”

EHC Alumni: Justin Joseph and Amanta Cuhaldina.

Mrs Lucas, Head of Careers and Destinations, said: “it was great to see how our former students were doing, they shared some of the things that led them to the career paths they’ve chosen. This gives our students a clear idea of what they can go into after sixth form.”

Amanta now studies Physiotherapy, Sport, and Exercise Medicine, having studied Biology, History, and PE at Elliott Hudson. She shared what it was like being in physiotherapy work placements; what it is like working for the NHS and private sector and how the skills you learn at college have helped her. She said: “Employability skills are things like communication and team working skills, problem-solving abilities, resilience, and self-motivation – all of which are essential for any employer, especially working as a physiotherapist.”

Abbie also studies Physiotherapy, Sport and Exercise Medicine and spoke to students about how she prepared for university from visiting open days, attending interviews, and preparing personal statements.

“The message we heard loud and clear was that the NHS and healthcare are extremely rewarding career choices and one that is full of opportunities. It’s so valuable for our current students to hear from alumni, as it gives a clearer idea of the direction, they could take in order to get where they want to be,” said Mrs Lucas.

Thank you to our student guest speakers and to Caroline Priestley from Bradford University Outreach for organising this session. Talks like this from alumni are just one of the many employability services, that our careers team organises to help our students research their career pathways fully and explore professional opportunities.