Ali S
"I would absolutely encourage students to study Sport and Exercise Science at the University of Surrey. Within first year alone, you’ll be able study a wide range of different topics, from cell biology to kinesiology and biomechanics."
What do you like about your course and why?
There are lots of desirable things about my course, however the small headcount of the cohort, comparative to other courses, is one of my favourite things as it encourages a lot of social collaboration. This really enhances the learning quality. I also really appreciate the variety of teaching styles from our well-experienced and skilled lecturers, which helps to demonstrate the care and passion they have for their respective disciplines and the course as a whole.
What do you enjoy most about Surrey?
I really enjoy the nature on campus, as well as the convenience of places to buy food, socialise with friends, and study.
As far as society options, there is seriously something for everyone. I was overwhelmed when I was looking for societies during first year, and I feel like there are even more options now!
"I wouldn’t think twice about doing a placement year. It was not only one of the best years of my entire life but one of the most formative."
If you’ve completed a Professional Training placement, what did this involve? What were the highlights?
I completed a Strength and Conditioning Placement with Bishop Wand Church of England School and London Scottish RFC, spending 50 per cent of my week with each group. I was very privileged to be able to travel all over the country, seeing many impressive, high-standard training facilities and stadiums. I also thoroughly enjoyed working with a highly regarded coaching team and players.
A highlight of my placement year was travelling to Bath with the staff from London Scottish to watch Bath Rugby’s final league game against Leicester Tigers, courtesy of one of the coaches. We spent a day having lunch at a nice restaurant, a scenic walk through Bath, up to The Rec (their stadium) and post-game enjoyed exclusive access to the pitch with Bath players, coaches and their friends and family. That was an unforgettable day! Beyond that, there were many equally memorable moments, such as a training night at The Stoop with Harlequins and competing at Rosslyn Park 7s with Bishop Wand. Every day was hugely enjoyable.
What do you want to do when you graduate?
At this point in time, though I have a strong desire to continue my progression into the world of performance sport, I am very keen to pursue a masters in strength and conditioning science or another course in the sport science bubble.
Coaching was something novel to me at the beginning of my placement, and having lots of exposure and freedom to coach at U18 and senior level has nurtured my confidence and interest in person-oriented work within sport. Also, being part of a multidisciplinary team helped me appreciate the variety of stakeholders who contribute to the performance of an athlete and a team. This has made me interested in other disciplines in sport science, such as psychology and rehabilitation, broadening my outlook on postgraduate study pathways.
What advice do you have for students thinking of studying this course?
I would absolutely encourage students to study Sport and Exercise Science at the University of Surrey. Within first year alone, you’ll be able study a wide range of different topics, from cell biology to kinesiology and biomechanics, to name a few. This plays to different strengths and interests, although you need to spend time outside of lectures consolidating the content or it can get a bit overwhelming.
I wouldn’t think twice about doing a placement year. It was not only one of the best years of my entire life but one of the most formative. It’s a no-brainer for me. You learn so much from observing and speaking to professionals and, most importantly, practising your skills. I think it’s integral to personal and professional development.
