Being a keen cyclist, with a passion for competing in races across the North Island, it is no surprise that UCOL Graduate Alex Wilson naturally rode his decision of study towards the Bachelor of Exercise and Sport Science degree.
“As my interest was cycling, I began to look into Sport Science and the possible careers that may come from it. In the end, I chose the Bachelor of Exercise and Sport Science. This is because of the broad spectrum of papers and its versatility when looking at postgraduate study.”
Alex chose UCOL as his preferred place to study as he enjoyed the smaller class sizes and the more social environment that UCOL had to offer.
“My time at UCOL has been amazing, I found the lecturers to be excellent. They were all passionate about what they do, approachable and willing to go the extra mile to help. The environment at UCOL is very supportive and friendly.”
“During my time at UCOL I have been exposed to experiences and opportunities that other institutions typically don’t offer. For example, my second-year research project ballooned into a pilot study which was subsequently published as a research poster at the 2016 Melbourne
Australian Strength and Conditioning Association (ASCA) Conference.”
Alex is now studying a Postgraduate Diploma in Medical Technology extramurally through the University of Otago, and believes that it was through these opportunities at UCOL he was able to find his niche.
“As part of Practicum 3 in Semester 2 of my studies, I went to Wellington Hospital and spent a week watching how the Clinical Measurement Unit (CMU) operated and learnt about different career options available. I loved my time there and as a result signed up for the Postgraduate Diploma in Medical Technology.”
In the future Alex wants to use his Postgraduate Diploma to gain employment in a major hospital. Further down the track he wishes to continue his study and gain a Master of Health Science qualification or even a PhD, in which he would like to work in health/medical research or health policy planning.
*The Bachelor of Exercise and Sports Science has been superceded by the Bachelor of Applied Science