Oscar chose his degree after accessing physiotherapy throughout his life and wanting to give something back.

“I chose my degree because of my background of growing up with cerebral palsy. Physiotherapy, and healthcare in general, has been a regular part of my life. The quality of life I have been able to achieve due to the kind, selfless nature of the healthcare staff throughout my childhood has made me very grateful. It also really inspired me to want to give back to the profession that gave me everything I have today. I hope someday I can make a similar difference to someone's life. Maybe I can even inspire people like me (with a disability) to pursue a career in this profession so we can break down barriers and offer unique invaluable insights and empathy to the patients we care for.”

Oscar had a defining moment during his second year of studies which reinforced that he was choosing the right career.

“I completed a placement on MSK Paediatrics, and I was fortunate to meet a young man with cerebral palsy, the same disability that I have. Because of the unique circumstances of us having the same disability I was able to relate to him in a way others couldn't. I built a strong rapport with him, sharing stories about our disabilities. He told me he struggled getting into sport because of his cerebral palsy and that was getting him down. I really related to that because I had that same problem when I was his age. I told him this and I could see his eyes perk up, like he finally felt understood, it was like I was looking at a younger version of myself. That's when I told him about wheelchair basketball and how that enabled me to not only play sport but at a high level.

"I could tell this inspired the kid. He really wanted to play sport, but like for many disabled children, there are always barriers but few role models. I thought, hopefully I could be one for him. It became more than just being his physio. Because of my unique experiences I was able to put him in touch with a local wheelchair basketball team. I found out a few months later that he had been to a few sessions and was really enjoying it, his parents were chuffed. That physio session with him reminded me why I got into physio. It reminded me that despite my disability and struggles, that I did have something valuable to offer. For the first time, I think that kid felt heard, and I'm glad I could be the one who heard him. That day right there I decided what kind of physio I wanted to be. Someone who cares for others, shows empathy, and relates to people. Instead of my disability being a barrier, it was an advantage, as it should be."

Oscar chose to study at Leeds Beckett because of strong connections to the city.

“I chose to study at Beckett because I love the city of Leeds, also being both a Leeds United fan and being born here I have strong connections to the city. I was also impressed by how well regarded the physiotherapy degree here was. Leeds is also close to my home village, and family is important to me, so it meant I got more quality time with them by choosing LBU.” 

Oscar said the support he has had at Leeds Beckett has been invaluable.

“Having cerebral palsy, and after losing my dad and struggling with my own health issues, university can feel quite isolating, and overwhelming. There were times when I questioned whether I should carry on with the course. However, I always felt like university had my back, even if that meant mitigating, or needing reasonable adjustments. I also had a learning support mentor, Rob Knox, as I am neurodivergent. He was invaluable throughout my studies from both an academic and mentor perspective, helping me excel. Without him, I wouldn't be graduating right now.”

Oscar's advice is to get the most out of your university experience and never forget how lucky you are.

“My best advice would be, show up - it’s that simple. You are in a privileged position to come to university, never forget that. You have worked hard to get here, so why waste it? It may seem tempting sometimes to get really caught up in the moment, the social events, the newfound independence. Don't get me wrong, all of that is amazing, some of my best memories from university involve the socials - that part of university is much needed. But at the end of the day, you need to be there!

"That's half the battle. Once you're there, talk to your classmates, talk to your lecturers. If you don't understand something, ask. If you do struggle, that is okay. Imposter syndrome is normal. Just remember to talk, don't isolate yourself, the best thing I ever did after I lost my dad was tell the people at the university that I was close to, because then I could get help, and I did get help, and eventually it got easier. That may seem so hard in the moment, but struggling alone is never worth it. Take care of your mental health. If that means going on walks, doing your work early, going to the gym, cooking, then do it. Work that into your routine. Take care of yourself and show up!

“I am so grateful to my course team for how they helped me, their level of support and the way they went to bat for me without ever showing an ounce of frustration. I guess even though it’s been a very difficult four years, I wouldn't change it for the world, every adversity and bit of growth has made me the man I am today. I'm grateful for all of it. As they say, if you're going through hell, keep going.”

Oscar has big plans for his future.

“Since finishing university, I have turned my focus back to my sport, by upping my training routine, with the aim of being selected for the England under-25's team for some upcoming tournaments over the next 12 months. My overall aims is to focus heavily on my sport, balancing that with a part-time physiotherapy job with the aim of transitioning to full-time paid professional sport abroad within the next 12-15 months. My overall goal is to play at the Paralympics, but I have a long way to go.”

Find out more about studying Physiotherapy.

Find further information about the support available from the disability team.