Catherine
Taylor

Why NTU...

What inspired you to study your subject? 

"As a mature student, I was inspired to study occupational therapy because I want to help people overcome challenges to live their best lives by doing the things they want or need to do. Whether it’s supporting an adult or child with physical disabilities, long-term health conditions, learning disabilities, or mental health conditions, I was drawn to occupational therapy’s holistic approach and its focus on supporting the whole person, not just a condition. My empathetic nature and values align with the profession’s core principles of enabling people to live meaningful and fulfilling lives."

Why did you choose NTU and your course?

"The course is accredited by the Royal College of Occupational Therapists and approved by the Health and Care Professions Council, meaning I’ll be fully qualified to practise as an occupational therapist at the end of my three years. The combination of different forms of learning (in state of-the-art facilities) appealed to me because the variety is engaging, and prepares student well for real-world practice, including four different placements. As a mature student, I felt NTU were inclusive and supportive from the beginning, and my first impressions having met the course tutors were positive. Their expertise and passion for occupational therapy reassured me that studying occupational therapy at NTU would be right for me."

What’s your experience been like of your course so far? Can you pick out any highlights?

"My experience on the course so far has been enjoyable and positive. The lectures are engaging and provide many opportunities to apply theory in practical ways during group work. I have enjoyed the variety of teaching and learning, particularly guest speakers with lived experiences, and guest lecturers who currently practise within different areas of occupational therapy."

What does Social Sciences mean to you?

"Social sciences help me understand people, and how people behave in the society they live in. They offer an insight into how social, cultural and environmental factors influence someone’s health and wellbeing."

Support...

What do you think of the support available from tutors and staff at NTU?

"My tutors are extremely supportive and approachable. They are always responsive to questions and feedback has been helpful in building confidence and developing my academic skills. They are positive and want everyone to succeed. Their passion and knowledge for occupational therapy are evident, and the quality of teaching makes understanding easier despite the amount of content we learn. The access to resources, course teaching content and materials supports my learning by giving me the opportunity to reinforce my understanding at my own pace.

The library academic writing support team have also been extremely supportive when I booked a 1-1 critical writing support meeting. They have helped identify where I can improve my writing skills for my next essay."

Outside of the Lecture Theatre...

Did you find it easy to make friends and settle in at NTU?

"I have been very lucky that my occupational therapy cohort are all so lovely and friendly. There are many opportunities where we collaborate and are very supportive of each other. Whether you’re a mature student or an 18-year-old joining NTU, you’ll find it very easy to make friends with your cohort. Beyond the course, there are so many opportunities to get yourself involved in societies that will make it easy to make friends and settle in at NTU."

What’s next for you after NTU?

"I will become a registered occupational therapist upon completion of my degree, and so I can’t wait to bring my life experience, empathy, and professional skills into practice. I might be qualifying later in life than most, but I know I can still add value to support those who need it and am looking forward to the next chapter in my career."

How is NTU helping you to achieve your career goals?

"NTU is helping me to become a healthcare professional whose values align with those taught on this course. There is an emphasis on compassionate, holistic, and person-centred care, and so together with the teaching and learning skills and knowledge developed throughout the course I can become an occupational therapist that enables others to live meaningful and fulfilling lives."

Advice...

What top tips would you give anyone thinking about studying your course at NTU?

"If you’re a mature student like me and worried you might be the only mature student on the course, you won’t be. So don’t let that put you off. I think it’s wonderful that there are students of all ages on our course which for me makes it an enriching learning and supportive environment. The facilities in the Allied Health building are state-of-the art and make it an excellent learning environment. The course is varied and thorough, equipping you with the tools to become an effective occupational therapist. You will feel well supported by the excellent teaching team and your lovely cohort and I hope you’ll love your experience as much as I have so far, even the challenging moments."