Pavlos talks about studying DProf Clinical Studies during a global pandemic

Pavlos Kasdovasilis is currently studying for his Professional Doctorate in Clinical Studies in the School of Medicine. He tells us about his experience studying during a global pandemic.

Pavlos Kasdovasilis, Professional Doctorate in Clinical Studies student
Pavlos Kasdovasilis, Professional Doctorate in Clinical Studies student

“From the very beginning I liked the freedom I had within the course as well as the supervising team. They are very supportive and have a lot of knowledge within their fields evident by the way they are guiding me in this journey.

“I was supposed to attend the University; however, because of the COVID-19 pandemic, the course was delivered online. It is quite outstanding - the fact that even though no one was prepared for dealing with a pandemic (worldwide), the course flow was normal, and everything ran smoothly.

“I currently have three supervisors from different backgrounds. This gives me unique and very rich perspectives when it comes to my project. They are involved and interested in what I do, and I can contact them any time. They reply within a day of me requesting their help and I believe that we genuinely collaborate very nicely."

"After graduating I intend to use the knowledge to further support the Health and Social Care sector. The course will also allow me to back up applications for Director level posts."

“I chose to study at UCLan because the programme fit around my life and interests. Quite simply, I work full-time, and I wanted to do my Prof Doc full-time as well. Additionally, I wanted the Prof Doc in the School of Medicine as well as the flexibility the Clinical Studies provide.

“Since I am already working within my field of expertise, after graduating I intend to use the knowledge to further support the Health and Social Care sector. The course will also allow me to back up applications for Director level posts.

“UCLan is very student friendly. Even though issues arose (which is expected since all professions have challenges), they were able to solve them in a quick and professional manner.

“My advice to anyone considering postgraduate study here - well, it is a great place to study. I am not saying this for the sake of saying it. Yes, I have not been there [to the University] physically; however, the emails, the Microsoft Teams meetings and the chat rooms within Teams allow you to be in constant communication with everyone, which is the key. I would have done it all over again, easily. Furthermore, I would say that if you have self-motivation but do not want to feel like you are studying then go for it. This programme has an aura of freedom, intelligence, and forward thinking.”