Focusing On A Career in Neuroscience with HNC Health Learner Lidia Biju Kuruvilla

On completion of my A Levels at St John Fisher Catholic College, I decided to study this course at NSCG because I was interested in developing my research, presentation and communication skills and the course was close to home. The course also offered valuable work placement experience, which helps me to understand how theories work in healthcare settings. Throughout the course, I have seen significant improvement in these areas and I am very grateful to my tutors for their guidance and support. 

Applying for the course was easy compared to UCAS. I simply went onto the college website, searched for the course, clicked apply and filled in the form. The process was stress-free and simple to follow.

As part of this course, I get to complete a minimum of 225 hours of work experience within a health and/or social care setting. I currently work as a support worker at Cygnet in Kidsgrove where I help in assisting patients with acute trauma and personality disorders. This employment is helping me to gain an understanding of real-life experiences which I think will help me once I progress to university.

The whole HE experience has been positive thanks to the high standards of teaching. My tutors support me by breaking down theories related to healthcare and how they can be applied in real-life healthcare settings. The team offer guidance on assignments, help improve my research methods and they give me detailed feedback that supports my academic development. I'm encouraged to use critical thinking, professional communication and reflective practice which are essential skills for working in health and social care. They have worked in professional roles within the sector which give us invaluable knowledge for our own careers. I now feel that I can develop my independent learning which will help me in my future career and that is thanks to them.

The HNC has helped me to develop a broad range of transferable skills including time management, effective communication and reflective practice which are all essential attributes that I need to continue to grow. The work placement has helped me the most to learn more about workplace expectations, adaptability and confidence for industry which is something I've not experienced previously.

One of the benefits of studying locally has been the smaller class sizes and the money I've saved on my tuition fees. I feel that I've got more out of the Level 4 course than I would have done going straight to a traditional university. We receive personalised support and a more interactive learning environment and I feel confident in getting involved in smaller class discussions.

The best part of the course for me so far has been how much it has helped me to grow personally and academically. I feel more confident in expressing my ideas and opinions about topics being discussed and being able to ask for support when I need it. I already feel prepared for my higher level studies.

On completion of the HNC, I plan to work for a year to build on my experience and develop my skills further. After that, I plan to study at Level 5 to study psychology with neuroscience.

To anyone who is thinking of studying a health course but who doesn't want to move far from home, this course will challenge you . You will learn in an rewarding environment and definitely see yourself progressing in quite a short time. Stay motivated and trust your progress!