Meet some of our Cardiovascular and Respiratory Healthcare MSc students and read about their experiences at NHLI.
Sulaiman Alsaif - MSc Cardiovascular and Respiratory Healthcare
Why did you choose your course?
I have always wanted to pursue my postgraduate studies at a top university that will provide me with the opportunities, knowledge, and support as I improve my clinical and research skills and work towards becoming a better healthcare practitioner. I chose this MSc because of its unique program that is led by multidisciplinary lecturers who enthusiastically share their knowledge and expertise with their students. The MSc curriculum covers a wide variety of cardiovascular and respiratory specialities with respect to patient-centred care as well as healthcare at a population level.
Did you have any issues sourcing funding for your MSc?
Right after the completion of my undergraduate degree, I applied for a scholarship to continue my postgraduate studies. I then received a full scholarship from the Saudi Arabian Ministry of Education (Elite Scholarship Program). I am so grateful for this amazing opportunity.
What’s been your favourite part of the course?
The access to endless opportunities! I think one of the perks of being an Imperial student is the access to various academic, professional, and fun opportunities both within and outside the college.
What has been the most challenging part so far?
Time management for sure! At a postgraduate level you are expected to do a lot of learning in such a short period of time which can be quite challenging.
What are you planning to do next?
Taking advantage of the extra opportunities, and the networking gained through my MSc served as great preparation for the next step in my academic journey, a PhD. And yes, I will be staying at Imperial for the next few years, exciting times!
Rayan Alkhelaifi - MSc Cardiovascular and Respiratory Healthcare
Why did you choose your course?
As a paramedic, I have always been interested in both respiratory and cardiovascular healthcare fields. This MSc combines both specialties with a focus on both the clinical and research aspects.
How have you found the programme so far?
The programme has been very beneficial for me so far. The transition to a graduate level is not easy. However, with all the support provided by the staff and the College I find myself learning a lot every day.
Where do you see yourself in five years’ time?
Hopefully I will have finished my PhD and will be involved in education and training in the Emergency Medical Services field.
Alexis Perkins - MSc Cardiovascular and Respiratory Healthcare
Why did you choose your course?
I wanted to broaden my knowledge of the heart and lungs with a focus on improving patient care and the healthcare system. Being one of the leading medical and science universities in the world with multidisciplinary expert teaching, Imperial was my first choice.
How have you found the programme so far?
I really enjoyed the first term, we were given the opportunity to focus on a variety of detailed physiology topics involving the heart and lungs.
Where do you see yourself in five years’ time?
In any position where I can be making improvements to patient diagnosis, treatment and care. I am not sure whether that will come from a clinical or research position, hopefully a bit of both!