Case Study

I studied BMus (Hons) Jazz, Pop and Commercial Music with the University of Sunderland, after graduating I worked in the music industry for a few years before moving into fitness. I worked as a Personal Trainer and decided to further my professional knowledge and undertake an MSc in Sport and Exercise Sciences. I felt this would enhance my understanding and skillsets when working with clients and provide me with a professional edge over the competition.

As a mature student I felt welcomed and supported by the staff in the Sport and Exercise Sciences team. Moving from an arts to a science based discipline was challenging, yet highly rewarding. My favourite part of the course was designing and implementing my own research based study. This focused on how I could use music and in particular tempo, to influence psychophysiological recovery kinetics following high intensity, intermittent exercise.

After graduating I was asked back to the University as an academic tutor to deliver sessions for the BSc (Hons) Sport and Exercise Science, Athletic Testing module. I hadn’t considered a career path in education before this, and I have since gone on to work in Further Education as a teacher in Sport and Exercise Sciences, and currently delivering vocational based courses in Personal Training and Sports Massage Therapy as a tutor and assessor.

During my studies I was encouraged to join the Enterprise Place which runs as part of the University, they offer assistance in forming, implementing and launching small businesses. This proved invaluable, and within 6 months I had launched my own personal training business P. Performance where I offer therapy, movement rehabilitation and corrective exercise instruction. I was also fortunate to be awarded a grant from the Sunderland Futures Graduate Development Fund at the end of my studies to purchase additional equipment, and support for my premises to operate from. This allowed me to continue to operate in what has been an unprecedented year due to the Covid-19 pandemic. Now alongside my own business, I also work as a soft tissue therapist for MSK Sports Injury Clinic in Newcastle. Here I deliver manual therapy, medical acupuncture, shockwave therapy, myofascial cupping and exercise rehabilitation services.

Undertaking my MSc proved to be a highly rewarding year, which took me to a new level professionally, and personally as a therapist, educator and trainer. The experience gained as a tutor has also propelled me into the world as an educator which I am grateful for."

Published 12 April 2021