Final year dietetics student, Daniel Lawrence has always been interested in healthcare, physiology and mental health. He chose to study BSc (Hons) Dietetics course at Leeds Beckett University because it provides a pathway to becoming a qualified HCPC registered dietitian and has a patient-centred focus, which meets his interests.

Course: BSc (Hons) Dietetics

Tell us a bit about yourself and what drew you to Leeds Beckett, and your chosen subject area?

I have been out of full-time education for six years, having worked in a few different roles that were all unable to fulfil my requirements for a long-term career. A family member who currently works in the NHS brought dietetics at my attention. After researching the profession, the role and values matched my interests and I knew it would be something I'd love to do as a career. 

What made you choose Leeds Beckett? 

I was drawn to Leeds Beckett as they accepted alternative qualifications to A levels for this course, as my previous A levels were not of the entry requirements. I attended and open day and the dietetic team were incredibly impressive and approachable. I was able to discuss the course, challenges, placements, career prospects, and more. They were honest and empathetic which meant I knew during my time on the course I would have the support to get through it. They showed their passion for dietetics and I just knew that this career path was for me. The city of Leeds is a wonderful city with so much to offer, making it a top choice of mine to study. Having visited the city on open days and interviews I was able to spend time here which confirmed this was where I wanted to move to for at least the next three years and beyond. 

What has been your favourite thing about your time studying at Leeds Beckett? 

My favourite thing about the course has been being able to meet, learn, and study alongside like-minded individuals who have the same passions and interests as me. The social spaces available in the university, such as the student union allows to work and socialise outside of lectures in enjoyable ways. 

Is there a piece of work or project you have worked on that you are particularly proud of, and why?

I undertook a project during one of my placements within an NHS trust. This was focused on sandwiches for patients at the trust. My recommendations from the project directly led to changes being implemented within the catering department. This was a significant moment during my studies as it empowered me and gave me confidence that my voice is heard as a student dietitian on placement and the potential impacts of my role in the future to patient care. I really enjoyed the placement and was extremely proud of my project.

What advice would you give someone thinking about studying your course? 

Ensure this is the course for you! My experiences across the three years have been invaluable and I wouldn't have changed anything. I'm excited to start working within the NHS after graduation. It's not been without challenges, however I was fully prepared and aware of these prior to starting the course because I asked many questions at the open days and this has helped me throughout the course to handle these.