Laura D

What were the best things about your course?

I really enjoyed studying Nutrition and Dietetics at Surrey. What makes Surrey different is that the facilities are incredible. From the Clinical Simulation Centre where you practise your communication skills, to the science labs where you’ll do some of your modules in first year.

I really enjoyed the structure of the course. Placement A in your first year gives you a taste of what working in a hospital would be like. Placements B and C in third year are more intense, but so useful to get you stuck in. There will be a steep learning curve and then you'll be consolidating your practice with inpatients and outpatients. Both the lecturers and the placement supervisors are beyond helpful during your placements.

But how could I not mention the actual University campus? I lived on Stag Hill campus during my first year and I was really spoilt with the fabulous location (a quick commute to lectures!) and the close proximity to the town centre and then a quick train into central London. The campus is beautiful and has everything you could need too. Just wait until summer and for everyone to be gathered around the lake!

What do you do now? How did your degree from Surrey help you achieve this?

I got my first Band 5 job at the Royal Surrey Hospital, where I did my final placement. I loved the team and the caseload was so varied. In fact, I loved it so much I got a Band 6 job in the department.

Then I moved to London and now I work as a Band 7 Stroke and Neurosciences dietitian. My caseload is busy and has huge variety, as we are a National Trauma Centre. I specialise in tube feeding and am doing my competencies to place nasogastric tubes and nasal bridles. I also supervise more junior members of the team and we have lots of placement students too.

Without the guidance of the lecturers at Surrey and the great training I had on placement, I’m not sure I would have grown into the confident dietitian I am now. I have had really positive experiences with supervisors and I think that’s helped me develop my management skills, to try and reflect the learning that I had throughout the course.

What’s your advice to current students?

You will learn so much during this course and especially whilst on placement. My advice is to pick optional modules that truly interest you and not just because your friends are choosing them! The key to enjoying your course it to really find the topics interesting – and you'll find you end up doing well in them too!

During placement, something that really helped me was to reflect regularly. This wasn't always through a reflective piece of writing, but most often on the walk back from the ward or my walk home or when discussing my day with friends and family. Reflecting helps you assess your strengths and achievements, whilst also working out where you can improve. Even now, I reflect regularly after reviewing patients! The British Dietetic Association (BDA) has some great resources to help support your wellbeing during placement. 

But also remember your time at Surrey is also time to make friends, socialise and have fun. So join teams or social clubs, have lots of flat dinners and make sure you go to Rubix!

Find out more about our Nutrition and Dietetics BSc