Royal Papworth Hospital specialist cardiac physiologist tells how studying at CRC prepared him for his job

A specialised cardiac physiologist with the Royal Papworth Hospital says studying at Cambridge Regional College taught him essential skills to succeed at university and in his job.

Matt Lewis, 32, who graduated from the Access to Higher Education Nursing and Health Professions course in 2014, said: “Studying at CRC really helped develop my academic abilities.

“In particular, the course prepared me for the higher level of academic writing skills that were required, such as essay writing and the all-important referencing, which I had not done since leaving education some time ago.”

He added: “It helped develop not only my academic skills but my interpersonal skills.  The expectation from health care professionals is beyond just knowledge of the medical facts.

“To practice medicine effectively, developing interpersonal skills such as communication is important.

“In my job role, reporting information to the doctor in an accurate and timely way is necessary to determine immediate action and follow up care of patients.”

Matt came to college after deciding he wanted a career change. He left his full-time job to commit to full time learning.

He said: “This was a huge decision for me, but looking back I would do it all again in a heart beat!

“As a mature student, I felt I had the right mind set and focus to take this on, however, I would strongly advise anyone that is thinking of going back into full time education to ensure they invest time in their study and to have a clear career goals to help motivate them.”

Matt said he found the first three months of the course difficult but he said: “By reminding myself of the reasons why I chose this particular pathway and with the huge support of the teachers at CRC, I managed to achieve where I am today.”