Magzhan Yelubay

Tell us a bit about yourself, e.g. your background, your interests.  

I completed my medical degree in Kazakhstan in 2022, followed by an MSc in Sports Medicine and Rehabilitation at Nazarbayev University (2022–2024). Alongside my studies, I worked in a private musculoskeletal (MSK) clinic as a rehabilitation doctor. My main professional interest is supporting MSK patients after injuries or surgery, and working with athletes on their return-to-sport journey. I am particularly motivated by optimizing rehabilitation strategies to help individuals recover safely and return to their performance level. 

What have you been doing since finishing your studies?/What are you doing in terms of your career?   

I am currently continuing my work at a private MSK clinic as a rehabilitation doctor, where I assess, treat, and design rehabilitation plans for patients of all ages, including athletes. At the same time, I am actively applying for positions within sports organizations, federations, football teams, and Olympic teams, as I aim to transition into elite sport medicine organizations.  

What company are you working for, what is your role, and what does it involve?  

I work at MSK clinic "InMotion" as a rehabilitation doctor. My role involves consulting patients, carrying out clinical assessments and diagnoses, and creating evidence-based treatment and rehabilitation plans. I work with a wide spectrum of patients, including post-surgical cases, acute and chronic MSK conditions, and athletes recovering from sports-related injuries. 

What experiences at Leeds do you think have particularly helped with your career?  

The courses I studied in my first semester significantly developed my clinical reasoning, which I now apply daily when assessing patients. Additionally, placements with different sports teams provided me with valuable on-field experience and a better understanding of how to support athletes during competition and training. The Immediate Medical Management on the Field of Play (IMMOFP) course strengthened my knowledge of emergency care in sport, which will be essential when I begin working more closely with teams.  

How do you think the skills and knowledge you developed at Leeds whilst studying your Masters, helped with your career success? Did you create any industry links that were beneficial? 

Studying at Leeds gave me strong research skills, from critically appraising literature to designing and evaluating clinical projects. These skills have helped me stay evidence-based in my practice and given me the confidence to integrate new findings into patient care. The course also broadened my knowledge of sports medicine, including cardiology, respiratory physiology, and other systemic aspects that are essential for managing athletes holistically. While I did not establish formal long-term industry links, the placements gave me valuable insights and contacts that I continue to build on in my career. 

How did you fund your Masters? 

I was awarded a government scholarship from my home country Kazakhstan, which fully funded my Master’s degree. 

Why did you choose to study your particular course? Why did you choose the University of Leeds?  

The University of Leeds stood out due to its excellent reputation, strong academic staff, practical focus, and its established links with sports organizations, which I knew would provide both academic and real-world opportunities. 

What would you say about the learning and the career support facilities in your School and at the University in general?   

The learning facilities at Leeds were excellent, with access to advanced equipment, simulation tools, and practical sessions. Academic staff were approachable and supportive, creating an environment where I could develop both academically and professionally. The career support services were also valuable, offering advice on career planning, CV building, and networking opportunities.  

What aspects of the course did you enjoy the most?  

I particularly enjoyed the hands-on placements, as they allowed me to see how elite sport teams work and apply theoretical knowledge in real sporting contexts. Being on the field of play, supporting athletes during games and training, gave me a unique perspective on sports medicine.

Now that you’ve graduated, what would you say to students thinking about studying your course, particularly the Master’s element? 

I would strongly encourage students to take this course if they are passionate about sports medicine and rehabilitation. The program provides not only a solid academic foundation but also practical experience that prepares you for the realities of clinical and sporting environments. My advice would be to take full advantage of the placements, networking opportunities, and the expertise of the teaching staff. 

What does Leeds as a city have to offer students? (If you were an international student please also tell us about what it was like to study and live in the UK)  

Leeds is a lively and student-friendly city, with plenty of opportunities for cultural activities, sport, and social life. For me as an international student, it was not easy at first to adapt to a new country, culture, and way of learning. However, over time I found the city to be very welcoming, and the international student community made it easier to connect and feel supported.