Carl Onwochei studied a BTEC National Diploma in Health Studies (Health Sciences) at Middlesbrough College and is now achieving his career goals within Pathology and Biomedical Science.
“Studying at Middlesbrough College was a great experience. The support from the faculty of health and social care was second to none from the first day of the course. We were encouraged to explore what avenue we wanted to progress into in our careers and this was supplemented with work experience alongside our studies. I completed two placements during my course, one in a learning disabilities facility and one in an elderly care home. This confirmed that I wanted a career in the health sector.
“The lecturers at Middlesbrough College were so engaging and passionate about seeing us succeed. The teaching on the course was modular and delivered through a variety of methods, from practical demonstrations and lab practical to lectures and group work. I always enjoyed the science based modules and did well in subjects such as anatomy and physiology which I gained distinctions in.
“I ended up being accepted into a Russell Group University for my first degree, which is a big thing! After finishing my course, I trained as a Registered Adult Nurse at the University of Leeds. College gave me the confidence and skills to set about improving my life through education. My BTEC course gave me a strong start to academic writing which helped me gain a first-class honours degree.
“I developed more interest in disease processes and retrained as a Biomedical Scientist at the University of Sunderland. I have now relocated to Wales and work as a HCPC Registered Biomedical Scientist, specialising in infection science. My day-to-day job involved helping doctors investigate the cause of infection and carrying out tests to inform doctors which antibiotics work the best. My eventual career ambition is to become a Consultant Clinical Scientist and oversee diagnosis and management of diseases and validate new scientific methods employed within a lab to improve the efficiency of diagnoses.
“I credit Middlesbrough College with many good things that have happened in my career and would recommend the college to anybody wanting to take an academic or vocational course.”
Course: BTEC National Diploma in Health Studies (Health Sciences)