Case Study

I chose Sunderland as I was approached to be part of the South Shields FC International Academy programme. This enabled me to study a master's degree alongside playing football at a high level. 

Before coming here, I had just finished my undergraduate degree at the University of East London in Sport, Physical Education and Development where I graduated with a 2:1. I was also playing a lot of university football at a high level and even on an international stage with the English Universities team. Honestly, I was done with education but this opportunity to play for South Shields FC came about and I had to take it.

My favourite part of studying MSc Sport and Exercise Sciences is the practical elements of the teaching. We do strength and conditioning and physical tests using a range of scientific equipment. I'm a full-time coach for football and cheerleading in my spare time, so being able to incorporate my strength and conditioning knowledge has been a game changer. I'm also able to plan my sessions a lot better than I could before.

During my time here I got the opportunity to play against Sunderland AFC. This was one of the best footballing experiences of my career. Being able to play against a club with so much history and a huge fan base was incredible. It was one of the most nerve-wracking experiences of my life, to play a whole 45 minutes against players that compete at such a high level. The stadium was packed, and the fans were cheering my name and shirt number. It was so surreal. Even though we lost 5-0 it’s an experience I’ll never forget and I’m really proud of my performance. 

If you’re thinking about doing this course but worried that it's far away from home, Sunderland is an amazing city with great people. It’s a lot of hard work and late nights but it’s so fun and enjoyable. You won’t regret it".

Published 4 October 2024