Studying at De Montfort University Leicester (DMU) has helped Lamima Chowdhury become the best audiologist she can be.
The summer 2019 graduate is putting the knowledge and skills she gained on her Audiology course, placement and voluntary work to good use in her role with a major UK hearing aid provider.
She felt 'happy, excited and relieved' to be offered a job with Specsavers Hearcare in Nuneaton - where she spent 40 weeks on placement - before graduation.
"I am enjoying my role and am excited to see my future here at the company," said Lamima, whose job includes carrying out hearing tests and identifying the cause of hearing loss, tinnitus and balance concerns.
"The most challenging aspect is telling your patients they have hearing loss and the degree of loss, however the most memorable is managing a patient and meeting their needs whether that's fitting a hearing aid or rehabilitation.
"I received a lot of help and guidance from all my lecturers at DMU and I don't think I'd be where I am today without them. They have supported me every step of the way.
"DMU prepared me for the world of work by giving me all the knowledge and guidance to treating and managing the different type of patients I see.
"DMU also provided me with opportunities that increased my knowledge and confidence in becoming the best audiologist I can be."
Leicester-born Lamima decided to study at DMU because of the facilities and equipment.
"When I was looking into the course, the lecturers were very helpful and knowledgeable so I knew I'd be taught by the best," she said.
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Lamima was also impressed with the international experiences offered through the #DMUglobal programme and volunteering opportunities.
"I have taken part in two #DMUglobal trips," said the 21-year-old. "The first was with Square Mile India, where we went to Gujarat to carry out hearing screenings and hearing aid fittings on patients aged six-plus.
"This was one of the best experiences, as I was able to help those who have little to no access to hearing care. It also gave me a lot of confidence when I came back to placement, as I was exposed to patients from different age groups and backgrounds.
"I have also been to Hong Kong as a student ambassador representing the university. This experience allowed me to network with people from different cultures and meet new people."
'Rewarding' volunteer work has involved Lamima conducting hearing tests on athletes with learning disabilities at the Special Olympics - Sheffield 2017 and Scotland 2018 - and led to her winning the Outstanding Contribution Award at graduations.
"It was insightful, as I was able to work with patients that I wouldn't normally be exposed to," she added.
Posted on Wednesday 31 July 2019