For as long as I can remember, I’ve been drawn to healthcare and the opportunity to make a tangible difference in people’s lives. King’s College London has been at the heart of that journey, shaping my education and in turn my career. I began with an undergraduate degree in physiotherapy, where I completed placements in some of London’s leading teaching hospitals. These experiences were invaluable, giving me exposure to world-class clinical practice and cutting-edge research.
After graduating, I began my NHS career in a variety of junior physiotherapy roles, before specialising in neurodevelopmental paediatrics, which was both challenging and rewarding.
Returning to King’s
When the COVID-19 pandemic struck, it was a turning point. I reflected on my career and realised I wanted to expand my skills beyond physiotherapy. The idea of becoming dual-qualified as both a physiotherapist and a nurse felt like a natural next step. Nursing would allow me to combine my existing knowledge with a broader scope of practice, opening doors to new clinical and academic opportunities.
In 2020, I returned to King’s to pursue the pre-registration Adult Nursing MSc. Choosing King’s again was an easy decision. The university is ranked number one in the world for nursing (QS World University Rankings by subject 2025) and has an unrivalled reputation in healthcare education. I knew I would benefit from placements in some of the best hospitals in London and from teaching that pushed me to grow as both a clinician and a thinker.
What stood out most during the MSc was the level of support I received. My personal tutor and programme lead played a pivotal role in my development. They encouraged me to push myself academically, gave me the confidence to embrace new challenges, and reminded me that my unique background as a physiotherapist was an asset. Their mentorship was instrumental in shaping my postgraduate experience and in inspiring me to pursue research.
From MSc to PhD
King’s gave me access to invaluable networking opportunities. During my MSc, I was introduced to staff at the Cicely Saunders Institute, the world’s first purpose-built institute for palliative care. This connection ultimately led to a fully funded PhD studentship, an opportunity that has defined the next stage of my journey.
My PhD research focuses on mobility limitations in people with advanced cancer. Mobility is often taken for granted, but it is central to independence and quality of life. For people with advanced illness, the loss of mobility can be distressing, yet it is sometimes overlooked in clinical practice. Through my research, I’ve been able to investigate how mobility changes over time, how it impacts patients and their families, and how healthcare professionals can better recognise and support these challenges.
Where I am now
I am now in the final year of my PhD, completing my data write-up and beginning to draft my thesis. The experience has been transformative. Beyond the technical skills of data analysis and academic writing, I have learned how to lead research projects, work across disciplines, and collaborate within international teams.
King’s has been instrumental in this process. The research culture at the university is collaborative and ambitious. Being surrounded by colleagues who are leaders in their fields has challenged me to think critically, to question assumptions, and to place my work within a global context. I’ve also had opportunities to present at conferences, contribute to publications, and be part of discussions that directly influence clinical practice.
Looking ahead
As I approach the end of my doctorate, I am excited about the future. I am considering different career pathways, whether as a clinical academic, bridging the gap between research and practice, or within industry, where I could contribute to innovations that transform healthcare delivery. Whichever direction I take, I know that my time at King’s has provided the foundation: world-class education, strong professional networks, and a commitment to excellence that will continue to guide me.
Advice for new postgraduates
For anyone beginning their postgraduate journey at King’s, my advice is to embrace every opportunity. Placements, research projects, seminars, and networking events may not always feel immediately relevant, but they can open doors you never expected. Don’t be afraid to step outside your comfort zone; some of my most rewarding experiences came from challenges that at first seemed daunting.
And most importantly, seek out mentorship. The guidance I received from my personal tutor, programme lead and supervisors was transformative, and I would encourage new students to build strong relationships with their tutors and supervisors.
Forever King’s
Studying at King’s has been more than an academic experience; it has been a professional home. From my undergraduate degree in physiotherapy, to my MSc in nursing, and now my doctoral research, King’s has supported me at every stage. It has given me the knowledge, skills, and networks to grow as a clinician, a researcher, and a person.
Looking back, I feel proud to be part of a community that not only values excellence but also nurtures the people who strive for it. King’s has shaped my journey, and I know it will continue to shape the next steps of my career.