Ibua Chinedu Bidwell, from Nigeria, is studying MPharm (Hons) Pharmacy. He tells us about his experience on the course, including his recent placement working in the COVID Vaccination Centre.
I chose to study my undergraduate degree here because it is a modern university with state-of-the-art facilities, such as the new Pharmacy Practice Suite, the Pharmaceutical Science Laboratories, the new Engineering Innovation Centre and well-equipped Library to mention but a few.
The MPharm (Hons) Pharmacy degree is fully accredited by the General Pharmaceutical Council (GPhC) and is taught by internationally recognised and research active staff with strong industrial and NHS links.
Working in the COVID Vaccination Centre was one of the greatest achievements I have ever made since moving to the UK, as I felt the need to support the NHS in the fight against COVID-19. There were a lot of challenges working in the vaccination centre as I have not done vaccination or any form of injection before.
"Working in the COVID Vaccination Centre was one of the greatest achievements I have ever made since moving to the UK, as I felt the need to support the NHS in the fight against COVID-19. "
To overcome these challenges, we took part in different kinds of eLearning and face to face training regarding the delivery of the vaccine. My communication skills improved greatly working in the vaccination centre as I met different kinds of patients daily, and different kinds of healthcare professionals. I always feel so happy working in the centre as I see myself saving thousands of lives, and for being part of a team that helped end COVID restrictions in England.
The greatest challenge I have overcome is studying online due to COVID restrictions as I have never done online classes before. I was also able to get myself acquainted with the modern facilities here in the UK as I came from a low technologically advanced country. I have been able to learn how to speak out when things go wrong, and to always seek help whenever the need arises instead of suffering in silence.
The best aspect of my course is the fact it is delivered by internationally recognised and research active staff, and the conducive learning environment. This course gives the opportunity to encounter in-patients, and I enjoy education patients on the rational use of drugs and the best way to manage their ailments.
My advice to MPharm applicants is to always remember that they have set out for a rewarding career, and to achieve these demands hard work, dedication and conducting themselves in a professional manner so as not to bring disrepute to the pharmacy profession.
If you're interested in becoming a pharmacist, take a look at our guide.
