Upon leaving Ashlawn School 6th form in 2008, I went to Coventry University to study Physiotherapy. It is a 3 year course, with the University having some of the best facilities for Health Professional training in the country. Some of the days are very busy, working 9am-5pm. However, it does get you in to a routine for the working world. I have been learning a lot of anatomy in depth, looking at all the muscles, bones and nerves. I have also studied Pathophysiology, which is very similar to Human Biology, and covers cells and different types of diseases and their pathology. Furthermore, I have studied a rehabilitation module, learning techniques to treat patients and teaching people to use walking aids. It has been very interesting and I have really enjoyed it!

We practice our new skills on each other, and therefore you make new friends and become close to them. At the end of the year, I completed an observational week on an orthopaedic ward at St. Cross Hospital. I was not allowed to treat patients, but it enabled me to interact with the patients and the physios and see how a ward is run efficiently with all the health professionals. In year 2, I will be completing three 5 week placements in the hospitals, allowing me to put my new skills to use.

Although Coventry is not far, I decided to live in halls and is one of the best decisions I have made. Living in is a great way to socialize and meet new people. Not only I have made many friends, I am far more independent and confident. Plus, my cooking skills have really improved! I am really looking forward to starting the new year and learning the specialist areas of neuro, cardio-respiratory and musculoskeletal in more depth.

Jessica Mills