Gail Whiting BSc Occupational Therapy 2017

Hi, I am Gail Whiting and currently studying Occupational Therapy at the University of Southampton.

"Southampton has one of the best occupational therapy courses in the country with proven graduate recruitment and satisfaction. As part of the Russell Group it also has a high reputation for quality research"

Why did choose to come and study at Southampton?

Southampton has one of the best occupational therapy courses in the country with proven graduate recruitment and satisfaction. As part of the Russell Group it also has a high reputation for quality research.

What were you anxious about before coming to Southampton?

As a mature student with a family, it is always difficult to know how you will balance the demands of a degree with other responsibilities especially with a course that is so demanding.

Once at Southampton, how were your fears overcome?

The faculty and lecturers are an immense support. There is always someone to go to for advice. Both my tutor and the senior academic tutor have helped me through issues but the whole department are caring and supportive. Student services are also key for students experiencing difficulties.

What is it like studying here?

We have a very close cohort who are very supportive of each other. The campus is always buzzing and there is plenty to get involved in. The staff are inspiring and encouraging and go the extra mile to help us achieve our best.

How do you rate study facilities at the University?

The study facilities are excellent – the library is extensive and 24hour opening is a great help at exam times. There is excellent help from the library staff and plenty of access to assistance with academic work from the skills hub. IT facilities in the department are helpful too and generally quieter. The general provision of facilities on campus is good with plenty of places to eat, a cinema and the sports centre.

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

The opportunity to work with different community groups on projects has been inspiring. A recent showcase event for a design project with local commissioners gave valuable feedback on what we had achieved and the value of our work.

Winning the Deans List Award in my first year was a massive surprise and a huge honour. It made all the blood, sweat and tears worthwhile and something I am immensely proud of.

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

I’m not a stranger to further education but it has been massively challenging. I’ve learnt to lean more on the support available and that work/life balance is key. I’ve also learnt about the value that each and everyone of us has to offer both to our profession and to each other. I am much more confident in my ability to use my qualities in a professional capacity.

What are you enjoying most about your course?

Constantly learning new things and making connections between theory and practice.

What is the city of Southampton like to live in?

There is a huge amount to do in Southampton, public transport is good and there is a vibrant, friendly multi-cultural feel.

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

Life-changing