Tegan Fitch - from Biomedical Science to Trainee Clinical Scientist

Tell us about your career path since graduation and your current role

I started my role as a Trainee Clinical Scientist in September and made the move up to Manchester. This is part of the NHS Scientist Training Programme whereby I'm completing a part-time funded MSc in Neurosensory Science with the Uni of Manchester and working in NHS clinics to complete clinical competencies.

My area is Audiology, treating/diagnosing balance and hearing disorders. Over the next 3 years, I'll be more hands on in clinics and begin a research project to improve audiology services in my hospital, Manchester Royal Infirmary.

How did your experience at Sheffield prepare you for your career?

l completed a placement year in research and development which advanced my professionalism and scientific skills. I also worked as a play volunteer with the Sheffield Children's Hospital and as a Student Ambassador on many widening participation programmes which got me accustomed to working with lots of different children with different needs.

My degree itself gave me a really good foundation in neuroanatomy and neuroscience which I've found useful during lectures.

What opportunities did you take advantage of whilst at Sheffield? 

I was part of the Biomedical Science Society (BMS Soc) and BSL Soc (sign language). BMS Soc was great for meeting course mates through regular socials and BSL Soc was super cheap to join but provided me with weekly sign language lessons which is a skill I always wanted to learn. It would probably be more expensive to get such in-person tutoring elsewhere.   

Tell us more about your experience at Sheffield

Sheffield is a great place to be a student - it is cheap, there's lots of great food spots, walks, parks etc. Biomedical Science was a great course for me and I'd say my highlight was the final year research project. I felt able to practise science independently and gain confidence in my lab skills.         

What advice would you give to students interested in pursuing a similar career to you?

If applying to the NHS, any extra experiences you can pick up on will be invaluable if it can relate to the NHS values. Even better if you do anything working with the general public, children, those with special needs etc. and are in a compassionate role.