Interview with QMU postgrad student, Janet Gawander, MSc Occupational Therapy (Post-Reg)
Janet Gawander is from Vancouver, Canada, and is currently studying MSc Occupational Therapy (Post-Reg) at QMU.
Janet has always wanted to be involved in a caring profession. Her parents were healthcare professionals and she felt it was quite natural that she would follow suit. She researched the opportunities available and being attracted by the philosophy of empowerment, occupational therapy became the platform.
Janet completed a BSc (Hons) Occupational Therapy at the University of Lancaster and went on to work as a therapist in Vancouver for a number of years.
In 2010, Janet moved to Scotland where she has worked as a therapist with NHS Fife whilst raising her family. Whilst in post, she completed a PgCert Counselling Skills from the University of Edinburgh, but soon considered furthering her studies in Occupational Therapy at Master’s level.
Why did you choose to study MSc Occupational Therapy (Post-Reg)?
“One of the main reasons for undertaking master’s study is my strong belief in lifelong learning. Being able to study ideas and concepts in greater depth is useful to support innovative practice. Clinical reasoning, reflection on practice and evidence based practice can better support excellence in healthcare, given the future changes anticipated.
“I was aware of QMU’s Occupational Therapy courses having met their clinical placement students in my post at NHS Fife. My senior colleagues who had graduated from QMU had also recommended it to me.”
Why did you choose to study at QMU?
“On investigating the MSc Occupational Therapy (Post-Reg) at QMU, I felt the location, content and duration of the course was well designed for mature students like myself, who require a greater degree of flexibility.
“Opportunities to use remote access have made it possible for me to carry out my modules whist having time to care for my young children too.”
Were there any challenges?
“The course workload did feel challenging at the beginning, given the need for organising a new routine of academic and social habits. However in semester two, although the workload remains intense, the modules are well spaced and doable.”
Top tips for future students?
“There is good tutor and programme leader support. Encouragement and support from module leaders is excellent. The small cohort size of students makes it ideal for good discussion and learning.”
What did you enjoy most about the course?
“The MSc Occupational Therapy (Post-Reg) is a challenging yet rewarding experience. It provides opportunities to study concepts in depth, which in turn stimulate the development of critical thinking, reasoning and research skills.”
MSc Occupational Therapy (Post-Reg)
For more information on MSc Occupational Therapy (Post-Reg) at QMU, visit our PG Courses.
Notes to Editor
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