Peter West Leadership and Management in Health and Social Care PhD 2019

Hello, I am Peter West studying a PhD Leadership and Management in Health and Social Care at the University of Southampton

I chose to stay in Southampton to do a PhD because the Web Science CDT offered a new interdisciplinary perspective to research. This would allow me to take my skills in Computer Science and apply it to solving problems with technology in healthcare, an area I had become interested in.

How was your undergraduate experience studying Computer Science?

For my undergraduate, I chose Southampton because it was a leader in Computer Science. I was impressed by the facilities on an open day and decided this was where I wanted to study.

What led you to undertake your PhD at Southampton?

The Web Science PhD begins with a Masters year; this trains students how to do research within different disciplines. This was crucial for me, as it provided the social science perspectives needed in my research.

What is it like studying here?

I have been fortunate to have very supportive supervisors who have guided me throughout the PhD process. Studying at Southampton has presented new challenges for me, including studying independently for long periods and writing succinctly for publications.

What have been your Southampton ‘highlights’ (best experiences) so far?

Publishing my research and presenting it at the CHI Conference in the US.  Research trips to China and Russia. Being seconded by the Public Policy Unit to the Cabinet Office for 3 months.

How has your time at Southampton helped you to grow as a person?

I am a better communicator. I have learnt how to give good presentations and how to network with other academics and professionals. I am a much better writer.

How do you rate study facilities at the University?

Highfield Campus is the best university campus I have been to. It is wonderful to walk around and has its own shops, cafes, bars, and ducks.

The library is enormous and full of interesting tomes. A good place to concentrate on work.

What are you enjoying most about your course?

Meeting interesting people from different backgrounds and interests. Researching something I’m passionate about.

I studied Spanish for a year at Avenue Campus and thoroughly enjoyed it.

What is the city of Southampton like to live in?

It has a fascinating history. Titanic set off from Southampton to its doom. The docks remain an important hub of the UK economy. You’ll regularly see huge liners, cruise ships, and freight ships from the city centre. The Spitfire aircrafts were built across the river. Because of this, Southampton was a target of WWII bombing and most of the old city was destroyed. Much of it was replaced by 60s brutalist buildings, which are today being demolished and replaced with pedestrianised streets and shopping districts. It’s a constantly evolving city with lots to see and do.

What one word sums up how you feel about your experiences so far at Southampton?

Evolving