We caught up with Nicole, 3rd year therapeutic radiography/radiotherapy student!
17th December 2021
Tell us a little bit about yourself!
My name is Nicole and I am a 3rd year Therapeutic Radiography/Radiotherapy student at the University of Liverpool. I originally come from the Philippines and came to the UK when I was 3. I have interests in fashion, music, gym, travelling and food. After I finish my degree in Radiotherapy I hope to travel as much as I can before I officially become a Radiotherapist!
Why did you choose to study radiography?
I decided to study radiotherapy because I always knew I had an interest in science, but never wanted to pursue a career in labs. I was always interested in patient care and what stood out about radiotherapy was being able to build rapport and form a relationship with many patients in their cancer journey as you get to see them nearly every day for their radiotherapy treatment. This then meant you’re able to understand them better, which means they are more likely to trust you with their symptoms, allowing you to give them the right advice or referral. I find this really rewarding as patients are usually very thankful for your advice and help during their treatment.
Day to day, what’s the thing you find most difficult about radiography or studying radiography in general?
I think the long placement blocks are quite difficult as it can get very tiring, especially if you have to balance other things such as assignments. However, it is also very rewarding as your experience and confidence over time increases, preparing you to qualify as a radiotherapist. I am currently 6 months away from graduating and I already feel ready and prepared in the clinical setting due to the time I have had on placement.
Top things you’re looking forward to once you graduate/qualify?
I am looking forward to becoming qualified and getting a band 5 job as a radiotherapist. I also hope to work in Australia in 2-3 years time which is really exciting!
Top piece of advice for anyone wanting to go down this path?
If you care for people and want to help people get better, this path is definitely for you. It does get tough sometimes but it is definitely a really rewarding career as the majority of radiotherapists I have spoken to have said they wouldn’t want to do anything else! The career choices also don’t stop at being a radiotherapist, there are plenty of other roles in this profession, such as being a review radiographer, treatment planner and radiation physicist.
Anything else you would like to add?
When you go down this path, make sure to take advantage of every learning opportunity possible, such as lecturers offering placements at different radiotherapy centres as not all radiotherapy centres operate the same!
