Farida’s story | President of student society at the University of Huddersfield
Former University of Huddersfield International Study Centre (ISC) student Farida, originally from Egypt, was born with spina bifida. After studying an International Foundation Year, she successfully progressed to the University of Huddersfield, where she is now fulfilling her goal to become an Occupational Therapist. Through her commitment she’s also been appointed President of the Occupational Therapy Society. Previously a International and Academic representative, she continues to be involved in ISC life through her role as a Progression Champions and the ISC’s speaking club, and returning to provide helpful lectures for prospective healthcare professionals at the ISC.
While studying to become an Occupational Therapist at the University, Farida has had brilliant opportunities to improve her employability, alongside her work in the student community: “Placements are definitely a major part of my course, as it is with the other health and human sciences courses,” Farida told us. “We get several weeks of placement every academic year. So far I've had experiences in palliative care at Kirkwood Hospice, a rheumatology placement at Pinderfields Hospital and a Telehealth (online) placement. All of these are very different settings and experiences. They enabled me to explore the profession in many different ways and use my skills in different ways depending on the nature and context of each placement. Some of which allowed me to challenge and improve some skills and some explore my strengths.”