Student profiles

Some current and recent students explain what it's like to study Radiography, Diagnostic BSc (Hons).

Graham Porte

Emily Hawkins

"My name is Emily and I am a 2nd year Diagnostic Radiography student. Before starting this degree I worked in a variety of jobs in the UK and abroad, from waitressing to fundraising for St John’s Ambulance. Originally from Oxfordshire, I now live in Wimbledon for my studies.

"After working in a local care home since a young age, I gradually found myself being drawn towards the healthcare profession. Initially, I was torn between osteopathy, chiropractic and radiography, before realising that I wanted a varied career with clear opportunity for further study and specialisation, which radiography would offer. As the world of radiography is continually evolving and improving, there is no danger of radiographers becoming obsolete; it is in fact quite the opposite. I was keen to be part of a team and was also attracted to the prospect of travel.

"I chose the joint Faculty at St George's and Kingston largely due to its great reputation. The course has encouraged me to reach my full potential as a competent radiographer. The school is supportive of the student as an individual and it has proven to be helpful, open and friendly. I would like to work in London when I qualify, and training here opens that door with clinical placements and electives.

"I also really like the structure of the course. Having periods dedicated to either academic or clinical study allows you to really get involved in the tasks and achieve a lot more than repeatedly switching between the two. I am on a 10 month clinical placement at present, which has given me a genuine experience of what it is like to be a radiographer. Next week I am working from 8am to 8pm in A&E, shifts that will allow me to experience out of hour’s casualties and will undoubtedly test my skills.

"My advice to a potential radiography student would be to get work experience in a variety of areas of the profession, to gain a proper understanding of all aspects of the job. Radiography requires you to be an all-rounder. You need academic, practical, technical and interpersonal skills. It helps boost your ability to communicate well, have a proactive nature, be up for a challenge and be able to think on your feet. Enthusiasm is most definitely a bonus!"

Tom Monks

"Coming to university was a very anxious time. I was going to meet lots of new people and hoping I would fit in and it was in a real hospital - it all seemed slightly surreal at first. However, as it turned out there was nothing to fear, and all the staff and other students were very friendly. I settled in so fast it was as if I had known people there for years, I feel this aided my learning dramatically.

"Prepare yourself for a great time, you’re going to meet lots of new friends from all walks of life and a range of degrees. Probably learning to cook and use a washing machine in advance would have been useful, when I look back, but you soon learn. There’s no denying the course is intensive - there is a lot expected of you and it's not easy, but it is very worthwhile. You will get a BSc (Hons) degree, nearly a year's worth of clinical experience and fantastic assistance in finding a job when you qualify.

"The thing I enjoyed most about the Diagnostic Radiography course was the massive amount of time I spent working in the hospital. I like the fact I got to interact with real patients, and I'm certain this helped me learn so much about the job. I much prefer practical learning as opposed to classroom-based  study, which is one of the main reasons I applied for this course at the Faculty of Health and Social Care Sciences."

View more student profiles on Kingston's website.

Get more information about life as a radiography student at the joint Faculty of Health and Social Care Sciences website.