Linda Evans

Why choose the University of Leeds?

The Sport and Exercise Medicine MSc offered me the opportunity to combine my studies alongside working. I also felt that the course structure with the opportunity to complete MSK and pitch side placements alongside the taught material complemented my style of learning.

I enjoyed that there was a small group of students with healthcare professionals from a number of backgrounds that could all bring a different experience and perspective to our discussions.

I also enjoyed my placements particularly the pitch side aspects where I could learn more about team medicine and how to provide care to elite athletes compared to the NHS population.

A boost to your career

I found the research aspect challenging as this is an area that I had limited exposure to in my previous studies but I felt well supported by staff and have continued research in my career since graduating.

Being a small group of students was a huge advantage as we were able to share experiences and collaborate to all of our benefit. It has provided me with long lasting friendships and a network of contacts within the field of Sport and Exercise Medicine.

Follow your passions

I have continued clinical roles as a GP registrar followed by locum GP and have recently become a Sport and Exercise Medicine Registrar in Yorkshire. I have continued my research into physical activity in pregnancy and expanded this to the postpartum period alongside working as a physical activity clinical champion teaching other clinicians about the benefits of physical activity. I have been involved in local projects to improve physical activity in deprived maternity populations such as Bump and Baby Fit. I have continued to gain experience in elite sport through supervised roles in cycling, football and rugby and worked at the Birmingham Commonwealth Games as a venue medical manager.

Because you never know!

Embrace every opportunity as you never know where it might take you. Without a doubt, the network that I developed from the people I met at UoL on the sport and exercise medicine master's has shaped my career and I am now working in my dream job.