Current employer: Self-employed private podiatrist
Current job title: Podiatrist
Current location: Plymouth
“You learn a lot by working in a clinic, and establishing good relationships with your patients makes working life enjoyable.”
Has your career path changed since graduation?
Due to the recession, the NHS budget cuts included cutting the position in London. I started a private mobile podiatry business as a result, and as that steadily grew I then rented a clinic space in two established clinics in the area.
What is the most difficult thing which you have faced in your career?
Keeping on top of paperwork can be difficult, but must be done! Listening to patients concerns and life stories can be very tiring day in day out, as well; so having patience and an unbiased opinion can be difficult.
What is the best, most exciting or fun thing that you have done in your career?
I volunteered for the charity Crisis, working Christmas Day and Boxing Day, providing podiatry treatments to the homeless in London. It was an amazing experience and I look forward to doing it again.
What advice would you give to anyone wanting to get in to the same line of work?
Do your research and talk to a working podiatrist for an insight into the world of podiatry as this will give you an idea of the day to day running of things. Have patience and be able to listen well.
Did you undertake a placement during your degree and if so, how did this benefit you?
I undertook a number of clinical placements which turned out to be of great value. These placements gave me the opportunity to see a wider range of issues and conditions that helped to prepare me for working life after graduation.
Do you have anything you would like to share from your time working in a clinic?
You learn a lot by working in a clinic, and establishing good relationships with your patients makes working life enjoyable. If you work in the private sector, word of mouth means everything!
Do you have anything you would like to share specifically about the Podiatry School?
Plymouth's podiatry school is a fantastic place to train, the facilities and opportunities are great, and what’s more there is a great view out onto Dartmoor!
Would you recommend undertaking a course with the University, and why?
Absolutely yes, because the BSc (Hons) Podiatry course at Plymouth is well run and the University itself is growing in reputation – plus, you’re in a fantastic part of the country.
For more information about studying podiatry please visit our BSc (Hons) Podiatry page. For more information about our range of courses within the School of Health Professions, please visit the school page.
If you would like to find out what other relevant alumni from the School of Health Professions are currently doing, please visit the health and social work interest area.
