I chose to study Sport & Exercise science because I have been intrigued by the science behind how the body works since studying biology and PE at secondary school. I chose Leeds Beckett for the facilities and the links the university has with Leeds Rhinos Netball. The Sport & Exercise Science course interested me due to the modules it includes physiology of the human body and nutrition and biochemistry. These modules have further motivated me in gaining this qualification and gaining my career goals to become a sports physiotherapist.

Since being at university I have found the financial side of university difficult. Although I have secured a part time job to help me through university, I am unable to work longer hours as this would have a negative effect on my education. This scholarship will give me some financial security to be able to complete my qualification, meaning I won't need to work longer hours and I will be able to focus on my studies. Being away from home can sometimes have negative effect on me mentally due to not being able to see family and friends as frequently as I wish.

During my first year at college, I had the opportunity to apply for the Erasmus+ European Work Placement scheme. I was successful in gaining a place on the programme and was due to go to Malta with the Sports Department. Unfortunately, due to the Covid-19 pandemic the trip was cancelled, I hope to get another chance to go aboard while at university and this scholarship will help me with this. I will also use this scholarship money towards the cost of textbooks, e-books, stationary, printing cost, sports kit, gym and any netball fees.

In five years after graduating I would love to see myself working with England Netball as their physiotherapist. A degree in Sport and Exercise Science will help me achieve my career goal in becoming a Sports Physiotherapist. This particularly interests me as it is a career where I would be able to have a direct impact on improving athlete’s both mentally and physically. Designing and implementing rehabilitation programmes would be an area that I would practically be interested in. I believe that being able to keep as fit as possible strongly contributes to someone’s physical and mental wellbeing. I want to inspire the people I encounter to live a fulfilled life and help them improve their health, confidence, and even overcome obstacles that seemed impossible when suffering from an injury.