Masterplan - Issue 6 preparing for postgraduate study at LJMU

MASTERPLAN Preparing for Postgraduate Study

IN THIS ISSUE:

Focus on the future So in love with Liverpool Feed your passion

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Welcome to MasterPlan – the magazine for those considering postgraduate study at LJMU.

CONTENTS Page 2-3

Welcome to LJMU

Page 4-7

News and views

Page 8-11

So in love with Liverpool

Page 12-19 Feed your passion Page 20-27 Focus on the future Page 28-37 Make it work Page 38

A place to call home

Page 39

Careers expertise

Page 40-41 Postgraduate finance

We are delighted that you are interested in joining us and hope that you will enjoy reading about the experiences of our current students.

As you’ll soon discover, Liverpool is a vibrant place to live and work, a global city of opportunity. And when it comes to studying here, LJMU combines world-class expertise and facilities with access to outstanding employment opportunities through partnerships with key employers across the UK and beyond.

This edition of MasterPlan looks at the passion that drives our postgraduate students, the career aspirations that inspire them and the challenges they have overcome to succeed. You’ll hear about the wonders of the city of Liverpool, the expertise of our staff, the quality of our student support and the life-changing skills and knowledge our students have amassed during their time with us.

These fascinating stories demonstrate the power of postgraduate study and the incredible experiences that await you in the wonderful city of Liverpool.

We look forward to welcoming you soon.

Page 42-43 First class support Page 44

Contact details

Cover image: Matthew Williams, Industrial Biotechnology MSc (see pages 32-33)

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Welcome to LJMU LIVERPOOL MAGIC Why do so many students who graduate in Liverpool choose to stay here and make it their home?

Well, it could be the legendary scouse welcome or perhaps the feeling of positivity you get everywhere you go. Perhaps it’s the cutting edge arts scene, the great sporting heritage, the stunning architecture, the fabulous nightlife or the sensational shopping.

It’s hard to settle on one reason in particular but, as those of you already lucky enough to live here will know, Liverpool rocks!

Architecture Liverpool has been described by English Heritage as England’s finest Victorian city. We’re talking over 2,500 listed buildings in the city – 27 Grade I and 85 Grade II listed. And if that isn’t impressive enough, Liverpool’s waterfront is a designated World Heritage Site.

Green spaces Sefton Park with its historic Palm House, Calderstones Park with its 1,000 year old oak tree and Stanley Park with its Grade II listed Isla Gladstone Conservatory. Come summer, it’s research and lunch al fresco.

Nightlife Legendary! With the highlights divided between the city centre, Lark Lane and the Baltic Triangle, there’s something here to suit all tastes. We’d go as far as to say if you’ve never had a night out in Liverpool, you’ve never lived!

Culture

Shopping

Where to start? Free museums including The World Museum and the Merseyside Maritime Museum, free galleries such as The Tate and the Walker Art Gallery, first class theatre at the RIBA award winning Everyman, the Playhouse, the Empire and the Royal Court as well as classical music at The Philharmonic.

You want culture? You’ve got it!

With independent retailers aplenty and every big name you could ask for, Liverpool’s got it covered when it comes to that all-important retail therapy.

Sport Football you say? You’ve come to the right place! Visits to Anfield and Goodison are an absolute must during your time at LJMU no matter whether you are a ‘red’, a ‘blue’ or somewhere in between.

Eating out Something of a foodie? You’re sure to fall in love with Liverpool’s extensive range of international restaurants. And if you’re into café culture, you’ll genuinely be spoilt for choice.

Hungry for more? Take a look at itsliverpool.com

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NEWS AND VIEWS EXCUSE US WHILST WE CHANGE LJMU has announced exciting plans to redevelop the university’s estate between now and 2020, providing even more outstanding facilities for students.

There are around 20 different projects being carried out, ranging from refurbishments of existing facilities to major new developments such as the proposals for a student life building and sports building on Copperas Hill.

Planning permission has been granted to build new, improved facilities for Nursing and Allied Health at Tithebarn Street, along with a new pavilion at the Aldham Robarts Library, which will provide study and social spaces and an outdoor green.

UPSKILLING OUR RESEARCHERS Earlier this year, LJMU introduced its REF Upskilling Project enabling new and lesser-published researchers to learn from more experienced, widely published researchers in preparation for REF2021.

The scheme received over 80 applications and, after a rigorous judging process, 50 mentee/mentor projects are being supported.

Pro-Vice Chancellor (Scholarship, Research and Knowledge Transfer), Professor Robin Leatherbarrow, who is leading on the initiative commented: “The scheme offers a fantastic development opportunity and we would expect applicants to have an ambition and plan to be producing publications of a high quality (REF Metrics 3* or 4* outputs). This new approach allows us to invest in our own academic community and enhance our research output. Research is a significant pillar in our University strategy and we want to make this real.”

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INVESTING IN HIS FUTURE Financial Management Masters student Matthew Cox has received a £1,000 Chartered Institute of Investments and Securities (CISI) Educational Trust Award. He gained the University’s highest grade for an equity investment presentation as part of the assessment of the course’s Corporate Finance module.

On completion of the trading period, Matthew and his fellow students presented the rationale for their investments, incorporating empirical research and explaining the resultant equity movements.

Winners of the challenge from all CISI Partner Universities and Centres of Excellence will now submit essays and personal statements reflecting their learning. The top five students overall will be invited to an Interview Day at CISI Head Office in London where a panel will name the winner of the top postgraduate award for 2017-18.

To win the award, Matthew, alongside his fellow students, took up the role of Chartered Wealth Manager in an equity trading game using the Bloomberg Terminals. This involved an eight week trading period where they could invest either on the official market or the alternative investment market.

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REACHING OUT TO RESEARCHERS Considering research at LJMU? The University’s Doctoral Academy could be your new best friend!

Being a researcher requires a wide range of transferable skills, from critical thinking, project management and communication to team working skills. The Doctoral Academy provides a range of opportunities for researchers to practise and enhance their skills, including research communication competitions, funding for conference presentations, outreach and school tutoring schemes. There is also support with international skills development.

International researchers can take advantage of LJMU’s virtual learning environment to access resources remotely, they can also take part in intensive courses such as our Summer School and Thesis Boot Camps. These enable researchers to focus on research, engage with the available support and spend time with peers.

LJMU’s Doctoral Academy supports researchers studying for MPhils, PhDs and Professional Doctorates. The Academy brings together LJMU’s 850-strong research community to celebrate achievements, collaborate across subject areas, attend events and engage with the Researcher Development Programme.

Working with the Doctoral Academy, researchers: coordinate an annual conference, advise on the Researcher Development Programme, provide feedback on all aspects of the postgraduate experience (via the PRES survey) and present their research at regular Research Cafes. They also come together at monthly Intensive Writing Days.

For more information on the Doctoral Academy see ljmu.ac.uk/research/doctoral-academy

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CHINA BOUND Proof that Masters study can take you a very long way, Sport Coaching student Alexander Chiles has just secured a prestigious position as an International Development Coach for Cardiff City Football Club, based in Bejing, China.

“I started coaching when I was 16 whilst volunteering at Fulham Football Club Foundation,” explains Alex. Studying a BTEC Level 3 Extended Diploma in Sport (Development, Coaching & Fitness) and then a BSc in Sport Coaching at Southampton Solent University, Alex moved to LJMU for his Masters, feeling that the curriculum would enable him to take his coaching to the next level.

“During my studies at LJMU, I spent eight months working at the LFC Foundation, coaching on a number of projects developing sports skills with boys and girls of all abilities from 3 to 18 years,” he says. “I also worked as lead coach on a project at Alder Hey Children’s Hospital aiming to encourage Cystic Fibrosis (CF) patients to be more involved in physical activity. I worked with CF patients on a one-toone basis, delivering physical activity sessions.”

One of the many highlights of Alex’s Masters course was its flexibility. “This allowed me to gain industry coaching experience alongside my studies,” he smiles. “I also loved meeting experts including England Football Coaches and being involved in a Coaching Masterclass with Mike Phelan.”

All of this experience worked very much in Alex’s favour when he applied for the position of Development Coach for Cardiff City. “I was over the moon to secure the post and can’t wait to travel to China to start delivering a range of player development initiatives,” he says. “I’m finally where I want to be and that’s all thanks to my Masters at LJMU.”

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SO IN LOVE WITH LIVERPOOL Moving away from home to study can feel a little daunting – particularly if that move includes travelling overseas. If there’s one thing all of our students will tell you, however, it’s that Liverpool very quickly feels like home. In this edition we talk to a few of the students who’ve fallen under the city’s magical spell.

IT’S A FAMILY AFFAIR Realising that his sister Giota was planning to do a Masters, Kostas set about persuading her to come to LJMU. “I had spent a week in Spain during my undergraduate degree and was originally planning to study there” explains Giota. “Kostas persuaded me to come here because I am interested in sports events and both LJMU and Liverpool have a great reputation for sport.”

Liverpool has had a major impact on Kostas and Giota Tsamourtzi. Not only has the city drawn the brother and sister over 3000 miles from Greece to study for their Masters degrees at LJMU, it is now set to become their permanent home.

Kostas came to the UK to study for his Masters having completed his National Service. “Following my undergraduate degree in Economics I decided to study Digital Marketing,” he explains. “The UK is at the cutting edge of this sector and thus seemed like the ideal place for me.”

Having visited the city for herself, Giota realised she loved Liverpool every bit as much as her brother. “I knew straight away that it was the city for me,” she says. “The people are so friendly, the docks are amazing and there’s always so much to do.”

Now studying for her Masters in International Events Management, Giota feels that Liverpool is very much the place to be for her future career. “The city has an amazing schedule of events year round and I’d love to be part of that,” she says. “I am currently working as an intern in a business that offers networking events so it is good to be able to put the theory I am learning into practice.”

Kostas first visited Liverpool in 2011 with his father.

“Dad was attending a sports science conference and I came along for the experience,” he says. “I loved it from the minute I arrived so, when I found out about the Digital Marketing Masters at LJMU, it was an obvious choice.”

Working for a while as a Digital Marketing Executive during his studies, Kostas decided to set up his own business with a contact he made through work. “We set up ‘Woke’, a digital marketing agency specialising in millennial and youth communications,” he says.

“With no financial backing other than our own money it was a rocky road at first but things are going really well now.”

With their offspring very much settled in Liverpool, how do mum and dad feel about losing their son and daughter to the city? “They are really happy we came here to do our Masters and completely understand why we feel so strongly about Liverpool,” says Kostas. “To be honest it gives them the perfect opportunity to come to the UK for a holiday whenever they choose – and it also cuts down on their skype time by 50%!”

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EXCEEDING EXPECTATIONS “When you move overseas to study you are told that the food will be tasteless, it will be really cold and the people will not be as friendly as they are back home,” reflects Masters student Bevis Phiri.

“Liverpool is nothing like that. The people here are awesome, there’s a really good vibe in the city, I’m getting better at cooking British food and I can even deal with the temperature!”

In terms of the level of study, Bevis feels that he has come a long way. “I have developed critical thinking skills, better writing skills and am more comfortable with analysis,” he says. “The support here is great so, even if you are worried about something you haven’t done before, there are workshops to help.”

Outside of the classroom Bevis is loving life in the UK. “My flatmate Freddy, is amazing and has helped me so much,” he smiles. “Liverpool has a fantastic mix of historic and modern features and I’ve had plenty of time to get out and about visiting other cities in the UK. I was lucky enough to have two Christmas days last year – one with a former work colleague in Essex and another in Leicester with my flatmate’s family.”

Bevis came to LJMU to study for a Masters in International Public Health having worked in Zambia for a global health organisation. “After my undergraduate degree in Development Studies and Economics I worked in research,” he says. “At that stage I didn’t have a real passion for what I was doing but, as I started working in public health research, dealing with issues affecting people’s lives and health, I suddenly realised it was something I had to be involved in.”

As to the future, Bevis is looking forward to securing a management position in Public Health in Zambia.

“I want to do my bit to reduce health inequality and improve access to health services,” he says.

“Traditionally we have concentrated our resources on infectious diseases but now we are facing the threat of non-communicable diseases too. There is great deal of work for us to do and I look forward to playing my part.”

Realising he needed a Masters qualification to move forward in his career, Bevis considered programmes in the US and the UK. “The US programmes were two years long which didn’t suit me and when I started to look at UK options LJMU was the obvious choice,” he says. “I wasn’t looking for a purely academic programme as I really wanted to develop my professional skills. LJMU has lots of partners in the field and placement opportunities – exactly what I was looking for.”

Bevis’ experience of the programme has certainly lived up to his expectations. “It is one of the most diverse programmes at LJMU,” he enthuses. “We have students from Oman, Cameroon, Nepal, India and Nigeria to name but a few. The modules enable you to interact and learn from each other’s cultures and experiences.

There is a real emphasis on global and public health issues in developing countries and we look at all different kinds of settings.”

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FEED YOUR PASSION There are many reasons that people embark on postgraduate study but one thing they all have in common is passion. The following stories are testament to the dedication shown by our students, the love they have for their subject, their determination to make a difference and the lengths they will go to in pursuit of their dream.

A DREAM COME TRUE After years of travelling the world in pursuit of her goal, Linda Amos came to a crossroads last summer when, having secured a fabulous supervisory position on an archaeological dig near Cambridge, she was offered the chance to undertake her dream PhD studying the Neanderthals.

“I worked alongside some amazing people, excavated dinosaur bones, built a mammoth skeleton and so much more,” she smiles. “Each day was an adventure but I knew my real dream was to undertake a PhD. Fate played its role in Linda’s story whilst she was working at Gorham’s cave in Gibraltar – one of the last known European settlements of the Neanderthals. “I met LJMU’s Richard Jennings during my trip as he was visiting the cave with students,” she recalls. “We got talking about PhD opportunities and, not long after I returned, an opportunity came up. I applied, had my interview and found out the following day I had been successful. It was a dream come true.”

“In some ways the timing seemed really cruel,” she recalls.

“I’d have given anything to secure a job like that over the years but when it came down to it, my dream was to do a PhD and so I left my job and came to LJMU.” Linda studied for her undergraduate and Masters degrees at the University of Bergen in Norway. “We moved to Norway from Galashiels when I was 13,” she explains. “I didn’t speak a word of Norwegian but I had some amazing teachers and was able to pick up the language as I studied.”

Linda is loving life as a researcher. “LJMU is very different to University in Norway,” she says. “I have been really impressed with the opportunities on offer here and the development support available. The city itself is perfect – really comfortable, a great size and with a good balance of old and new.”

Linda’s passion for archaeology significantly pre-dated her move to Norway. “I was always interested in cultural history and visited my first ever dig with a neighbour when I was seven years old,” she smiles. “Don’t get me wrong, I loved Super Ted as much as the next kid but, in general, the ancient Egyptians were always far more interesting to me than any cartoon character!”

So how does it feel to be living her dream after so many years? “It’s amazing and it shows just how important it is to keep putting the time in, building your experience and working in the background,” she says. “I’ve travelled far and wide, spent days exploring empty caves and thrown myself into every opportunity I was given. If you want it enough you’ll get it – just never give up on your dream.”

In the early years Linda’s archaeological flights of fantasy were centred around her TV viewing and reading. Once at University though, she started to spread her wings, travelling to South Africa, Amsterdam, Canada and Gibraltar, working on sites and building exhibition pieces to further her knowledge.

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NURSING A PASSION TO MAKE A DIFFERENCE explains. “Having done a lot of bank nursing due to family commitments I felt that I had never found my niche – though I have to admit I do enjoy the variety involved in supply work.”

Over the past five years Kayleigh has spent a great deal of time working in A&E, Major Trauma and on the Medical Assessment Unit. It is this experience that has inspired her to study on the Public Health Addictions Masters. “We see an awful lot of people in hospital who present with various illnesses and injuries but whose main problem is addiction,” she says. “They are treated for the problems we see but the core issue remains unresolved.”

Kayleigh is making the most of every minute of her studies. “Masters study is all about time management,” she says. “With a young family I often feel I don’t have much time to manage but Masters study is do-able if you keep on top of everything.”

Kayleigh’s studies have changed her perspectives on health policy and management and made her a lot more aware of the issues faced by those suffering from addictions. “Although it is early days I feel a lot more confident in raising concerns around addictions with hospital patients and am more likely to take the initiative and signpost services to them,” she says.

With three children under 10, a part-time nursing career and the added pressure of Masters study, you might wonder how Kayleigh Greavey manages to keep her head above water. The John Moores graduate, however, remains positive about the experience, insisting her postgraduate qualification is actually an investment in her future.

On graduation Kayleigh would like to combine her Public Health knowledge with her nursing experience and work in Health Promotion. “Long term I want to move into service planning and management,” she says. “It would mean the world to me to make a difference to all those people whose addictions go unnoticed.”

Kayleigh qualified as a nurse at LJMU before embarking on five years in nursing, working in both a care home and a local hospital. “With my children growing up I decided it was time to develop a specialism,” she

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WORLDLEADING STUDY You know you’ve got a pretty good reputation when a fellow university, 6000 miles away, recommends you as the best place to study!

Canadian Mario Artukovic was looking where to study for a Strength and Conditioning Masters when staff at his home university suggested Liverpool John Moores. “My tutors had done some collaborative work with the University and recommended it,” explains Mario. “I started to look into it myself and the more I saw, the more I knew it was the right place for me. I read about LJMU’s links with lead sporting environments and, of course, its world class scientific research. It was exactly what I was looking for.”

Laid back Mario was not at all concerned by the move to a new country. “The application process was fine,” he says.

“I’d always wanted to live in Europe for a year or two so it all just fell into place for me.”

Mario was pleased to find himself studying alongside a mix of home and other international students. “We have students from the USA, Italy, Ireland and England,” he says. “Some have come straight from undergrad and others have come in with work experience.”

So does Masters study live up to his expectations?

“I have improved a lot here,” he smiles. “The modules taught by Dave Clarke have been simply amazing. This is a man with 25 years’ experience at the pinnacle of sport. His lectures and practicals have been everything I could possibly ask for and more.”

Looking forward to his professional football placement, Mario is already thinking about his future. “I want to work as a Strength and Conditioning Coach for a club in North America or Europe,” he says. “My dream would be to work in the English Premier League. The practical experience and knowledge I am gaining here should give me exactly what I need to get to where I want to be.”

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BAT GIRL Most postgraduates are passionate about their subject but Giada Giacomini takes that passion to a new level. The Italian PhD candidate is simply batty about bats!

Following her undergraduate studies, Giada went on to study for a Nature Management Masters at her alma mater.

“I was lucky enough to secure a scholarship and spend six months in La Plata, Argentina researching echo-location sounds and how bat activity varies in cities due to the number of green spaces available,” she explains.

“When my obsession began my family thought it was just a phase,” she laughs. “They thought I’d be back to normal soon but I think they’ve resigned themselves to the fact that I’ll never change.”

On graduation Giada spent three months working with Bat Conservation Ireland. “I started to consider doing a PhD and found this ecomorphology opportunity at LJMU,” she says. “Although it was something I hadn’t studied before I realised it would be extremely interesting if a little scary and challenging.”

Giada comes from a farming family and has always been passionate about nature and animals. “I studied for my undergraduate degree at Bologna University as it was the only institution in Italy offering a wildlife management programme,” she explains. “In my second year I encountered a professor who was a bat specialist and I really enjoyed his lectures. When I had to write my dissertation I decided to focus on bats.”

Now in the third year of her PhD, Giada is loving life at LJMU. “Everything is so well organised making it is easy to study here,” she says. “Liverpool is a lively city and such a good place to be a student.”

Giada’s love of bats grew apace. “At first I started monitoring the activity of the bats that lived in the roof of my house,” she says. “It was very simple stuff but I soon became obsessed.”

Thinking of the future, Giada is planning a career in academia centred, of course, around her beloved bats.

“I think the best way to protect a species is to educate people,” she says. “Bats are so fascinating that it’s easy to draw people in and, once they find something they love, they naturally want to protect it.”

So what is it about bats that Giada loves so much? “To be honest I could go on for hours answering that question,” she laughs. “In essence, I love the fact they live on every continent in the world except the Arctic and Antarctica.

This means that they have evolved and adapted to different habitats. Whereas bats in the UK will hibernate when the supply of insects runs out in winter, for example, those living in the tropics don’t hibernate as their food supply is available year round. Add to this the fact that they are the only mammal that actively flies and you can see why there is so much to love about them.”

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PREPARATION PAYS OFF Currently half way through her three year PhD, Katie is researching Exercise Metabolism and loving every minute of it. “I think of my supervisors as friends,” she says. “I’ve never felt that I couldn’t talk to them about anything – be it an academic or a personal issue. I know I am really lucky to be in that position as friends at other institutions often only see their supervisors on a very formal basis once a month.

I pop in to see my supervisors whenever I like.”

For many, the step up to PhD study is something of a stretch but Sport and Exercise researcher Katie Hesketh has been able to take it in her stride thanks to studying for an MPhil beforehand.

Katie, who plays water polo for Great Britain, joined LJMU for her undergraduate degree some years ago.

“I was looking for a University that excelled in Sport and Exercise studies and was also within commuting distance of Manchester where my water polo training centre was situated,” she says. “LJMU ticked all the boxes and the sports scholarship I received made my life so much easier.”

In terms of Liverpool life, Katie couldn’t be happier. With family originating from the area and grandparents who met at the forerunner of LJMU, it comes as no surprise to hear that Liverpool feels very much like home for the Lancastrian. “Even when I commuted from Manchester during my undergraduate degree I always felt like Liverpool was where I belonged,” she says. “It’s a great city and I’m so glad I came here.”

It was Katie’s father who first muted the idea of a doctorate to the student when she was in the first year of her undergraduate degree. “My dad has this habit of putting ideas in my head and then leaving them to germinate” she smiles. “He knows how to play me!”

As to the future, Katie would like a career in academia and is considering a post-doc overseas. “I have done some supervisory work during my PhD and I really like seeing that lightbulb moment when something clicks for a student,” she says. “Those moments have given me a passion for teaching and that’s something I’d like to pursue.”

Katie’s path was set, PhD study was her goal and so, after graduating, she undertook an MPhil at LJMU. “That was the year it really hit me,” she says. “I was quite stressed as I adapted from working to a timetable and to deadlines provided by the University to handling my own workload, planning my own time and basically getting things done.

It was a huge step up but it was one that is now making my life so much easier.”

In terms of water polo, Katie has no plans to retire in the foreseeable future. “I want to keep going for as long as I can,” she laughs. “I may not be as quick as I get older but I’ll have lots of expertise to pass on!”

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FOCUS ON THE FUTURE For many postgraduate students, higher-level study is a means to an end. They want to secure their dream job, progress in their career or even change direction. Here we talk to a few students who are looking to the future.

LANDING HIS DREAM JOB With an undergraduate degree in Nautical Science from the Indian Maritime University and four years’ experience at sea, working his way up to Third Officer, Ashwin Rangan came to the UK to study for a Masters in Maritime Operations Management in September 2017.

Settling into life in the UK has proved very easy for Ashwin. “It may have only been a few months but I already refer to Liverpool as home,” he smiles. “There is always something to do here. I love the architecture and the museums. I’ve still not made it past the second floor of the World Museum as there are so many amazing things to see.”

“I loved working on the tankers and got the chance to visit so many different parts of the world but I had to come back to shore due to a period of ill health,” Ashwin explains. With his heart still set on a career in the shipping industry, Ashwin began to look for a qualification which would build on his experience and lead him to a management role in the sector.

Ashwin is loving every minute of his studies, benefitting from the breadth of knowledge covered by the course and the expertise on offer. “There is an amazing combination of topics and we get so much practical knowledge,” he explains. “Our programme leader is amazing. She has already taken us on three field trips and is planning yet more.”

“My course isn’t offered at many universities so it came down to a choice of three: LJMU, Nanyang in Singapore and the World Maritime University in Sweden,” says Ashwin. Spurred on with a great reception from LJMU, he decided to study in the UK.

When he is not learning from his tutors and industry experts, Ashwin is keen to pick up knowledge from his peers. “There are 30 of us in my group and we come from at least 15 different countries,” he says. “Ages on the course range from 22 to 40 so everyone has completely different experiences and backgrounds.

That makes for a really interesting learning experience and has also enabled me to make friends from all over the world.”

Something of a seasoned traveller, Ashwin was ready to face the so-called inevitable obstacles involved in a move abroad. “The thing is there just were no problems at all!” he laughs. “Working in the shipping industry I’ve had some bad experiences of flying into countries and then having awful onward journeys and problems with accommodation. With my move here, I’d had a Skype tour of my room before I left home, I got a free LJMU shuttle service from Manchester airport to my accommodation and when I arrived, my living space was pristine – exactly how it looked on screen.”

As to the future, Ashwin wants to complete his Institute of Chartered Ship Brokers exams and secure a management or operations post in the shipping sector.

Longer term though he hopes to be able to return to sea. “I want to be ship’s captain,” he smiles, “and the knowledge I am gaining now will certainly help me to get there.”

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ON TARGET FOR CAREER SUCCESS Although Alex Williams has always known the area she wanted to work in, it is only now, after two undergraduate degrees and a wealth of work experience, that she feels set to find the career of her dreams.

Alex, from Chester, completed an undergraduate degree in Health and Cultural Studies at Manchester Metropolitan University before working in alcohol detox and later as a Health Care Assistant. Not entirely happy with her career, she went back to education and took a second degree in Substance Use Studies.

“My second degree gave me the placement experience I needed,” she explains. “I was interested in alcoholism and wanted to concentrate on this area.”

Realising she would eventually want to undertake a Masters, Alex secured a flexible post working for an assisted living support line. “Once I found the Public Health Addictions Masters at LJMU I knew it was the one for me and, as I could study part-time, it allowed me to keep working,” she says.

Alex is extremely positive about her learning experience at LJMU. “The course is amazing,” she enthuses. “Besides the great lectures, my fellow students have a wealth of knowledge and experience so I am learning from them too.”

Having secured a placement working on a Social Isolation research project, Alex is getting the experience she needs for the career she wants. “I want to work in research so this experience is invaluable,” she says. “The extra reading and independent work at Masters level is certainly a step up from undergraduate but the self-motivation you gain prepares you for research.

I feel confident I can finally secure my ideal role in my chosen sector.”

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ENJOYING EVERY MINUTE Sandra Ise has simple advice for anyone considering Masters study: “Immerse yourself in the University experience and take from it whatever you can.”

As well as providing support to others, Sandra has made the most of the University’s excellent academic support services. “I have been so impressed by the small class sizes and the amount of one-on-one teaching here,” she admits.

“There is a lot more support available to me at this level than at undergraduate. Teaching is very practical and we have done lots of coding and programming which I love.”

Cyber Security student Sandra progressed to postgraduate study from her undergraduate degree in ICT at the University of Bradford. “I wanted to improve my chances of getting a job and a Masters is certainly very desirable,” she explains. “I chose John Moores because it offered the course I wanted and was conveniently close to home. I have been interested in cyber security since I studied a security module at undergraduate level.”

It’s hard to imagine that Sandra has much down time but, when she does, she still likes to keep herself busy. “I really like to get involved. I love the Student Opportunities events, I am a member of the photography club and I enjoy going out to the cinema and trying out all of the amazing restaurants here,” she smiles.

Born in Nigeria, Sandra moved to the UK with her family when she was 10. “My dad was working over here and decided to move us all over because he found Liverpool a very friendly place to be,” she says.

So what advice would this energetic Masters student give to others considering postgraduate study? “I’d say think about it carefully. Don’t rush your decision and take a gap year if necessary. Masters study can be life-changing and that’s an opportunity you don’t want to miss.”

Liverpool’s friendliness has certainly rubbed off on Sandra and she has taken it upon herself to help as many other students as she possibly can. She is about to start work as a Student Advocate and has also been appointed Faculty Representative, working with course representatives and the Board of Directors to facilitate change.

Sandra has also been helping the international students on her course to familiarise themselves with her adopted home town. “Having someone to show you around makes such a difference and helps you to settle in quickly,” she smiles.

“We have four international students on our course. Their experience is quite different from the rest of us who have come straight from undergraduate study and so helping them means I also benefit from their knowledge.”

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NO TIME LIKE THE PRESENT Living a busy family life with two children under six might not seem like the ideal time for a career change. Never one to turn down a challenge though, Environmental Consultant Emily Turner is undertaking a Masters to change her life and the lives of many more.

Emily’s passion for research is now leading her towards PhD study. “I want to move things forward in terms of the information given to expectant mothers on breastfeeding and the support available to them when their baby is born,” she says. “In terms of children with special needs, there is support available but nothing standardised and that is a real shame. I want to carry out work that will help many families at a key stage in their lives. I’ve found my passion and I want to make a difference.”

Emily studied for her first degree in Environmental Management at Liverpool Hope University when she was 25. “I had worked in sales and retail for a number of years and longed for a job with a future,” she says. “I enjoyed Geography at school so it seemed like a good choice.”

Graduating in 2008, Emily spent a number of years working as an Environmental Consultant and even studied for a postgraduate diploma in Environmental Management.

“I was mostly carrying out pre-development surveys for housing developers,” she explains. “As time went on and our family started to grow, however, I realised I wanted a career change.”

Motherhood provided the inspiration for Emily’s change of direction. “Whilst pregnant with my children, and particularly my second son Alex, I became interested in breastfeeding and the support available to women,” she recalls. “I was particularly keen to explore the issues around breastfeeding children with special needs. I guess you could say that was what really triggered my interest in public health.”

With oldest son Eden at school and baby Alex in nursery, Emily seized the opportunity to further her education and embarked on her Public Health Masters. “It is absolutely brilliant, I am so pleased I have done it,” she enthuses.

“I can’t really underestimate how challenging it can be at times but the rewards are there and it is lovely to have something for me, away from the family, which will, in time, benefit us all.”

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MAKE IT WORK Besides the academic challenge of postgraduate study, there will always be times when everyday life gets in the way of your learning. Unexpected grades? Busy family lives? Health concerns? As you’ll read in the following pages, our postgraduates have overcome them all and gone on to succeed.

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WHERE HE WANTS TO BE From the age of 16 Edward Shaw knew he wanted to be an engineer and, despite some ups and downs, he is now preparing to live that dream, undertaking a PhD in Maritime Engineering.

Edward’s A-level results were lower than predicted. “I found myself looking for University alternatives I’d never considered before,” he recalls. “An academic I spoke to at Plymouth suggested I contact LJMU as they offered an accredited degree featuring a foundation course which would get me to where I wanted to be.”

Edward took this advice and soon found himself studying at LJMU. “I threw myself into my course, became a course rep and really enjoyed my studies,” he says. “It was during this time that I met Professor Ian Jones – a man who took me from an E in A-level maths to scoring firsts in all of my University mathematics exams.”

Edward took to Liverpool as quickly as he took to his studies.

“Although I didn’t get out and about in the city too much at first, I soon came to think of Liverpool as home,” he reflects. “I’ve recently moved closer to Bold Street – my favourite part of town and I’m very settled here now.”

As his MEng degree drew to a close, Edward decided to stick with academia and study for a PhD. “I’m a strong theoretical thinker so research suits me perfectly,” he says. “I came upon the idea for my research during a lecture held by visiting Professor Ron Bell who spoke about the causes of major industrial accidents. I am now working on the implementation of a life-cycle based approach to functional safety in the UK marine sector.”

So what’s next for the man who has come such a long way in just a few years? “I see my PhD as an opportunity to make key industry connections, to pick up the knowledge and skills required to work in the marine sector and to improve my understanding of safety issues,” he explains. “For me, a PhD is a sound investment in my future. It is a way to get a job that: interests me, is well paid and is based in an industry I am passionate about.”

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NOTHING’S GOING TO STOP HER NOW With three children under 12 to care for and a number of significant medical issues to cope with, you’d imagine that Heather Irvine would have quite enough on her plate. This determined 38 year-old, however, has thrown herself into education later in life and, with an undergraduate degree in Law under her belt, is now studying for a Masters in Public Health at LJMU.

Advice from one of her tutors then led Heather to LJMU. “I spoke to Rose, the Programme Leader, and soon realised that LJMU was the right move for me,” she smiles.

Still feeling a little shell shocked at being a Masters student, Heather is finding the support network at LJMU really helpful. “Staff tell me that – like many new Masters students – I suffer from imposter syndrome,” she says. “As I progress through the course and hand in more assignments I believe my confidence will grow. I’m delighted to say that my first assignment was submitted early so that gave me a little boost in itself.”

“I worked in nursery education after school and then spent some time as a Brain Injury Rehabilitation Support Worker before having to leave that job due to my health conditions,” Heather explains. “At that stage I felt ready to do a degree so I studied on a distance learning basis with Nottingham Trent University.”

Currently waiting for a transplant operation, Heather is optimistic about her future life and career. “I’d like to work in the public health arena in a hospital or in health protection,” she smiles. “I know my children are missing out on some time with me at the moment but I’m doing this to move into a role I love and show them that hard work pays off. They are just hoping that at the end of my Masters I don’t embark on a PhD!”

Despite enjoying her Law degree, Heather soon realised that moving into the sector at her stage in life probably wasn’t the best option. “I couldn’t really see many employers wanting someone with no legal experience who was also bringing up a family,” she admits. “It was at that point I went on a summer school in Geneva with my course tutors and saw the work of the United Nations and the World Health Organisation. It was like a light switching on. I realised I wanted to work in Public Health, helping people and highlighting issues.”

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SCULPTING HIS FUTURE The inspiration to study can literally come from anywhere. For stonemason Matthew Williams it came from his former employer, Emyr Rees.

Currently embarking on a Masters in Industrial Biotechnology, Matthew is extremely grateful to the man who inspired his academic journey.

here was right for me and I was already very much settled in Liverpool,” he says.

Matthew’s postgraduate experience is very different from his undergraduate. “As I wasn’t studying in the right area at undergrad I had to make myself work,” he reflects. “Now I have found my passion I lose myself for hours on end doing research. It is so much more stimulating working in an area you love.”

After leaving school, Matthew, from Newquay, South Wales, went to college to study bricklaying and carpentry. Working as a builder for a short period, he then became a stonemason’s apprentice. “Emyr, my employer, always said I had more in me and I should go to college,” recalls Matthew. “Eventually what he was saying stared to strike a chord and I did an access to nursing and health professions course at college with a view to going into physiotherapy.”

With lots of hands-on practical work in the labs and great personal support from the course team, Matthew is now looking at PhD opportunities. “I am really interested in developing biofuels and the use of micro-organisms in developing new materials,” he says. “I guess you’d say I’m at a crossroads in my life now, deciding whether to opt for an academic career or a future in industry. It’s a really exciting place to be.

I just need to give myself the space to make the right decision for me. I know how important it is to choose the right path.”

Matthew came to Liverpool to study for his undergraduate degree in Sport and Exercise Science and, although he enjoyed his experience, he soon realised that his passion was for the scientific rather than the sporting element of the course. “I knew I wanted to do a Masters but I wanted to do some research first,” he explains. “I had become increasingly keen to use my past industry knowledge alongside my academic learning.” Taking a year out, Matthew read around the field he was interested in and settled on the Masters in Industrial Biotechnology at LJMU. “I did look at other Universities but I felt the course

So how does Matthew’s former employer feel about his protégé reaching the heady heights of postgraduate study? “Emyr is very proud indeed,” smiles Matthew, “and I’ve got an awful lot to thank him for. Without his encouragement I would certainly never have made it so far.”

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OLYMPIC HOPEFUL RUTH TARGETS PUBLIC HEALTH Juggling a Masters degree with Olympic training might seem something of a challenge to most of us, but for LJMU’s Ruth Mwandumba it’s simply a way of life!

LJMU was one of three universities Ruth considered for postgraduate study. “My undergraduate degree was in Medical Physiology with Human Biology from the University of East London (UEL),” she says. “My original plan was to go into graduate-entry medicine, but as I went through my undergraduate degree I decided it wasn’t for me and became increasingly interested in Public Health. I looked at postgraduate courses in Edinburgh and back at UEL, but decided that LJMU was the right choice for me.”

Raised in Liverpool, Ruth – a representative of the England Rifle Shooting Academy – has her sights set firmly on the Paris 2024 Olympics. “My club coach always says that with my ability and work ethic, I could aim for Tokyo 2020, but it really depends on what stage I am at in my career and how much time I can devote to my sport,” she says.

Embarking on her International Public Health course last year, Ruth is loving every minute of her studies. “I’m in a really diverse group and that is so important because it means that we hear first-hand about health systems throughout the world,” she says. “My family are originally from Malawi so I can relate to the experiences I hear about.”

Ruth got involved in rifle shooting having joined the army cadets at school. Rising quickly through the ranks she is now the current British Record Holder in the Women’s 10m Air Rifle Team Event and the English Champion.

Ruth’s passion for sport was one of the key elements that brought her to LJMU. “I knew that studying a Masters degree and training at such a high standard would prove challenging, so I needed to find a university that would support me throughout my course,” she explains. “The Sports Scholarship Manager at LJMU was really helpful and explained that any lectures I had to miss would be recorded and I could have extensions on assignments should I need them as a result of my training and competition schedule.”

Ideally Ruth would like to work for the World Health Organisation (WHO) but knows this is some time away. “I want to do a PhD and then take a job at a smaller Public Health organisation to get some experience under my belt,” she says.

“I want a career where I can travel and make a difference, so the WHO would be ideal.”

Before that high-flying career takes hold, however, there’s the small matter of the Olympics to take care of. “I’m very excited about my future in the sport,” she smiles. “It’s going to be hard work but hopefully it will pay off.”

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HECTIC TIMES FOR STEPHEN Former professional athlete Stephen Symes leads something of a busy life. Besides studying for a PhD in Maritime Engineering, the 33 year-old is a swimming coach, a physical training instructor, the player/manager of Mallaby – a semi-professional football team – and a competitive swimmer.

Stephen studied for his first degree, in banking and investment, at the University of Chester when he was 18. With the option to take up either football or swimming at a professional level, he chose the aquatic route. “If I’m honest I always preferred football because I was never a fan of the early morning training sessions in the pool,” smiles Stephen. “At the end of the day though it was all about ability and I was slightly more advanced in swimming than football.”

With a swimming career spanning some 10 years, Stephen has many career highs to report including competing as a team GB representative in the swimming world cup series and international championships.

“As with any athlete as your career progresses you start to think about your next move and, in 2012, I got the chance to come and study engineering at LJMU on a sports scholarship,” he says. Grabbing the opportunity with both hands, Stephen enjoyed every minute of his MEng and was asked by tutors to consider staying on and undertaking a PhD. “I’ve always been someone who goes with the flow,” he says. “So when the chance arose I thought why not? I really looked up to my tutors and I thought if they believed I could do it, I probably could.”

Stephen is researching human error assessment in the maritime industry.

“A shocking 80% of incidents recorded on board ships are due to human error and miscommunication,” he explains. “My research should help us understand why this happens and, as a result, reduce the accident rate.”

So what are Stephen’s plans for the future? “I definitely intend to apply for Fellowship of the Maritime Engineer’s Institution,” he says, “and, long term, I’d like to take up a position in academia. For now though I’m just going to keep doing what I’m doing and see where my PhD takes me.”

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A PLACE TO CALL HOME If you are moving to Liverpool to study, you’ll be delighted to hear that all new students are guaranteed a room in University-endorsed accommodation, no matter what your level of study.

And what’s more, if you prefer privately owned accommodation, we can help with that too!

UNIVERSITY ENDORSED ACCOMMODATION Opt for University-endorsed accommodation and we’ll give you the option to live with other postgraduate students and/or mature undergraduates.

To book your university accommodation: 1. Explore the accommodation options: www.ljmu.ac.uk/ discover/your-student-experience/accommodation 2. On accepting an offer from LJMU, submit your online accommodation request. The sooner you send a request, the more choice you will have 3. Your accommodation manager will contact you by email within 10 days. Follow the instructions provided and make the initial payment to finalise your booking For further help or advice, please call: +44 (0)151 231 4166 or email: accommodation@ljmu.ac.uk

PRIVATE ACCOMMODATION Liverpool Student Homes (LSH) www.liverpoolstudenthomes.org/ is the official provider of private accommodation for LJMU, the University of Liverpool and Liverpool Hope University.

LSH has the city’s largest choice of student flats, houses and rooms with over 16,000 bed spaces. It offers protection against poor housing conditions and also provides impartial expert housing advice when required.

For more information call LSH on 0151 794 3296 or email lsh@liv.ac.uk

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CAREERS EXPERTISE Did you know that over 96%* of LJMU taught postgraduates are in work or further study six months after graduation?

HIGHLIGHTS OF OUR SERVICE INCLUDE:

One of the reasons we can boast such great statistics is the excellent careers support available to each and every LJMU student.

• Campus-based Careers Zones which allow you to access careers support closer to where you study – call in to find out about the range of services available to you • One-to-one careers advice and guidance from expert Employability Advisers and Careers Advisers – phone 0151 231 2048/3719 or call into your nearest Careers Zone to make an appointment

CAREERS SUPPORT AND MORE

• Careers Zone 24/7 – a range of online careers tools, including CV and cover letter builder, interview simulator, employer advice videos, psychometric testing practice, assessment centre tool, GoinGlobal database and much more. Access the platform at ljmu.ac.uk/careers/ careers-zone-digital-careers-tools

Whatever your career ambitions, LJMU’s Careers Team is on hand to help enhance your employability, add value to your university experience and help you take the necessary steps to achieve your career goals.

• Our online jobs board where you can look for graduate jobs, LJMU-funded internships, placements, voluntary work and more – access the jobs board via Careers Zone 24/7.

Opportunities from the site are also featured on physical jobs boards in Careers Zones • School-specific Career Planning Guides (featuring student and graduate case studies and employability articles) and programme-specific Career Insight guides (highlighting career options related to your degree) are available to download from the Careers website – ljmu.ac.uk/careers • Regular employer events and careers fairs as well as careers workshops and webinars (online classes) on CVs, application forms, interviews, psychometric tests etc – https://careers.ljmu.ac.uk/Default.aspx • Mock interviews to perfect your technique and build your confidence – phone 0151 231 2048/3719 to arrange • CareerSmart programme – all postgraduates have the opportunity to engage with the programme which will introduce you to the steps involved in making informed choices about your career.

Visit ljmu.ac.uk/careers/careersmart or email CareerSmart@ljmu.ac.uk if you want to take part *HESA 2017

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POSTGRADUATE FINANCE Before you embark on your postgraduate studies you need to think about how you are going to fund the next stage of your education. The great news is that financial support is available for postgraduate study in many guises and our student advice team are on hand to guide you through the options. You can contact our funding specialists at moneyadvice@ljmu.ac.uk or call 0151 231 3153/3154 but, in the meantime, here’s a brief outline of the options open to you:

• NHS Courses

• Postgraduate Masters Loans

*2018 figures

You can apply for a bursary for some Masters level NHS Courses. The funding cycle opens in April for September starters. See the NHS Business Services Authority website (nhsbsa.nhs.uk/students) for more details • Doctoral Loans For details of the new Doctoral Loans please visit: www.gov.co.uk/doctoral-loan

Students from England, Wales or the EU attending eligible full and part-time masters courses can apply for government loans of up to £10,609* (England) or £13,000* (Wales).

Further information and details of eligibility are available at www.gov.uk/studentfinance and www.studentfinancewales.co.uk/ Students who ordinarily live in Northern Ireland can apply for a non means tested loan for their tuition fees. The loan is capped at £5,500* per student and you can find out more at: www.studentfinanceni.co.uk Students who are normally resident in Scotland can apply for a postgraduate tuition fee loan up to a maximum of £5,500* for full-time courses. Eligible students can also apply for a living cost loan of up to £4,500*. This funding is not means tested. Scottish students who want to study at postgraduate level on a part-time basis can apply for a tuition fee loan of up to £2,750* per year. For more information and repayment details see the Student Awards Agency Scotland

DID YOU KNOW?

• Postgraduate International Scholarships

• If you are a home/EU graduate with a degree from LJMU, an Alumni discount of 20% off your postgraduate tuition fees is available*

LJMU offers a series of scholarships for international applicants on taught Masters programmes and research degrees. These scholarships take the form of fee waivers.

For full eligibility criteria and details of how to apply, see the international scholarships section of our website

• Funding is also provided by research councils, charities and trusts • The University has a Student Support Fund for those facing unexpected hardship or who have caring responsibilities eg for a partner or children

• Teacher Training Teacher training is funded in the same way that undergraduate courses are funded, via government loans and grants. There are also bursaries depending on your degree classification and the subject you are going to teach.

See: gov.uk/teacher-training-funding for more details.

Funding applications open at the end of February

• Equipment and support is available for those with an ongoing disability or learning difficulty, email: disability@ljmu.ac.uk *Subject to terms and conditions

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FIRST CLASS SUPPORT Whether you are joining LJMU as a new student or have studied here as an undergraduate, you will have access to a wealth of support services. You’ll find details of the main services below but, if you are not quite sure what support you need, call in and see us on campus when you arrive.

• Accommodation As well as the services of our central accommodation team who deal with queries and arrangements pre-arrival, Student Advice and Wellbeing can help you with any issues you may have with University accommodation once you settle in, contact accommodationadvice@ljmu.ac.uk. You can also contact our private sector housing adviser based at Liverpool Student Housing, email: advice2u@liv.ac.uk • Counselling and Mental Wellbeing Talking therapy appointments are available Monday to Friday throughout the year and there is also a daily drop-in session, contact: counselling@ljmu.ac.uk • Disability Support If you have a disability and require extra support during your studies, please inform Student Advice and Wellbeing as soon as possible, email: disability@ljmu.ac.uk • Finance Whether you need information on scholarships, loans or bursaries or some help budgeting, our Finance Advisers have the answers you need, email: moneyadvice@ljmu.ac.uk • International Student Support For one-to-one and group sessions on topics such as visa applications or cultural issues, contact: internationaladvice@ljmu.ac.uk

INTERNATIONAL STUDENTS

• Student Engagement Team This new team is available to help with any issues affecting your studies, whether you have problems relating to your mental wellbeing, practical issues or simply want someone to talk to about the stresses of university life. You can contact them at: studentengagement@ljmu.ac.uk

LJMU’s dedicated international team is here to support overseas students from the moment you decide to study with us. As well as letting you know all about LJMU before you come to Liverpool, the team provides a ‘meet and greet’ service when you arrive in the UK and will help with issues such as setting up a UK bank account and an email address, registering with the police and setting your immigration status to ‘student’. To find out more about what the international team can do for you, email: international@ljmu.ac.uk

• Study Support If you need to develop additional skills to complement your studies, our study support team can help with topics such as academic writing, referencing, maths support and English for academic purposes; for more information email: studysupport@ljmu.ac.uk or see our Academic Support section on the next page.

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ACADEMIC SUPPORT When you begin your studies at LJMU you may find you need help with certain academic topics. Our study skills classes provide valuable support for students at all levels.

We offer a wide range of generic training sessions as well as specific support for international and postgraduate students. Details of sessions are sent out weekly via email.

Bespoke sessions are also available subject to demand.

LIBRARY SUPPORT LJMU has three libraries: the Aldham Robarts library at the Mount Pleasant Campus, the Avril Robarts library in the City Centre and the IM Marsh library. Providing a hub for all front-line student services, our libraries are the place to: register and enrol, hand in your coursework, pay fees and get guidance on anything related to the student experience.

JMSU LJMU Students’ Union represents all of our students. Run by elected student officers, JMSU prides itself on being an entirely student-led organisation, working solely to improve your University experience. To find out more, visit www.jmsu.co.uk

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CONTACT DETAILS FACULTIES

SUPPORT SERVICES

Faculty of Arts, Professional and Social Studies: apsadmissions@ljmu.ac.uk

Accommodation:

Faculty of Education, Health and Community: (education admissions)

Finance:

accommodation@ljmu.ac.uk

moneyadvice@ljmu.ac.uk

marshadmissions@ljmu.ac.uk

International enquiries:

(health admissions) health@ljmu.ac.uk

int-admissions@ljmu.ac.uk

Faculty of Engineering and Technology:

Liverpool Student Homes:

fetadmissions@ljmu.ac.uk

lsh@liv.ac.uk

Faculty of Science:

Student support:

scspgt@ljmu.ac.uk

studentadvice@ljmu.ac.uk

Liverpool Business School:

The Doctoral Academy (contact form):

busadmissions@ljmu.ac.uk

https://www.ljmu.ac.uk/forms/enquiry

Visit ljmu.ac.uk or connect with us on Twitter @LJMU 44