Auwal Abdullahi – MSc Advanced Professional Practice in Neurological Rehabilitation graduate

“Studying at Plymouth has provided me with a great foundation and has also put in place a life-long learning trajectory in my chosen profession.”

After graduation I joined the Bayero University Kano as a graduate assistant and was soon promoted to a lecturer II. I will be promoted to lecturer I by October 2016.

How has your degree helped/influenced your career path?

My degree has provided me with a lot of skills which have helped to advance my career path. Consequently, I have served as a research co-ordinator in my department for one session and I presently serve as a guest editor with the International Journal of Medical Research on a special issue topic entitled ‘Stroke Research: Current Advances and Future Hopes.’

What is the best, most exciting or fun thing that you have done in your career?

The most exciting thing I have done in my career was the time when I developed and validated two measurement tools in stroke rehabilitation.

If you were just about to graduate again, what would you do differently?

I would put in place a plan to maximise my learning at Plymouth. Your time there is precious.

How did studying at Plymouth help you?

Studying at Plymouth has provided me with a great foundation and has also put in place a life-long learning trajectory in my chosen profession. I would not be where I am in academia and physiotherapy without the time I spent studying at Plymouth.

What lessons/skills did you gain from your course?

I learned so many skills such as critical thinking, professionalism, self-confidence, research, data analysis, how to apply evidence to practice, reflective practice, and scientific writing.

Did you undertake a placement during your degree and if so, how did this benefit you?

Actually, I did not have any placement per se; however, my personal tutor helped me to secure an experience at a hospital for stroke rehabilitation.

What is your favourite memory of studying at Plymouth?

My favourite memory is the friendliness of everyone at the University, including the students, my supervisor, my personal tutor, the library staff, and the counselling unit.

Would you recommend undertaking a course with the University, and why?

Sure! In fact, I have recommended Plymouth courses to many prospective students. This is because of the excellent teaching available at Plymouth, the research potential, and the very friendly environment.