Even though many of our graduates will have progressed in their careers since completing a case study, they are still of interest to students who wish to gain an understanding of the world of work.

The purpose of my role is to become a HCPC-accredited clinical scientist by the end of the three year programme.
During this time I am learning all about clinical diagnostics in genomics, specialising in cancer genomics.

I am currently in my first year, which consists of three consecutive rotations in BioInformatics, Cancer Genomics, and Genomics in rare disease. However, through all of them I have tasks I must complete that will go towards providing proof that am I competent for registration. Examples include discussing a case with a senior scientist, analysing microarray data or chromosomes for cancer diagnostics, and conducting literature reviews.
The majority of my time is spent learning over applying though. Right now I'm learning about SNP arrays in the diagnosis of patients with myelodysplastic syndromes, and next week I will be learning about FISH for detection of BCR-ABL fusions in chronic myeloid leukaemia. I also have to submit work for continuing professional development (CPD), showing I understand key principles of communication, teamwork, public speaking etc.

The job is very varied and there is always more to learn.
I'm also given many opportunities for workshops, seminars, public speaking, and outreach events which I find very interesting.
Workplace-wise, the STP community is very friendly and there are always opportunities to make friends and network.

There is a lot of reading and understanding! In a lot of ways it is similar to a degree, but the learning is very much self-directed. It can be mentally draining to spend all day learning about completely new areas of Biology and healthcare, but I find it very worthwhile.
You are also constantly assessed, whether it is through the part-time Master's that you do as part of the job, or by the 120+ tasks you must complete by the end of the programme.

I wanted a job where I can apply the knowledge I have learned directly to healthcare; I knew I wasn't interested in research as it is too far removed from the patient for me. I don't directly see patients in my job, but I handle sensitive and confidential genomic data, and when I am registered will be a crucial part of the patient's healthcare pathway.

Being able to understand and apply theoretical knowledge is very important. The job is a translation of research to the clinic and you must have in-depth understanding of the diseases you are investigating, and the technologies used.
Communication is also essential - many tasks require speaking and writing (you'll be doing a lot of writing!) so being able to express yourself clearly and concisely is useful.
Registered clinicians need to be able to talk to everyone from secretarial or administrative staff to fellow clinicians and consultants, so it is very important that you are able to engage with people effectively and appropriately.
Finally, you must be respectful. You work with extremely sensitive, confidential patient data on a daily basis and need to consistently uphold the values of the NHS.

September 2014 to 2017 - volunteered at Film Unit, on committee for one year
July 2015 - graduated BSc Zoology
Dec 2015 to May 2016 volunteering for Zest community centre in the cafe
Dec 2015 to May 2016 informal lab experience at Sheffield Institute for Translational Neuroscience
March 2016 to November 2017 - food runner, then waitress and Pizza Express
September 2017 to September 2018 - MSc Molecular Biotechnology at Birmingham, graduated with a Merit. Also was a Senior Student Representative
September 2018 to present - STP Cancer Genomics

My programme finishes in September 2021 and hopefully I would have secured HCPC registration to work as a practicing clinical scientist.
I definitely want to get more involved in all the extra roles possible, I am currently beginning on the board of the STP Trainee Network and want to take more opportunities in public engagement and being a STEM ambassador too.
At the moment I have no plans for any further degrees, but if I ever wanted to advance to consultancy I would have to pursue further training. For now, I want to experience being a clinical scientist, especially as genomics is currently such a hot topic in the NHS and diagnostics.

There's not one path to get here. The basic requirement is a BSc, after that it is up to you to show you meet the specifications for joining the STP. Take any opportunities you can get to do something a little different or to improve yourself; it can be through work or with extra-curriculars. I had no experience in the field when I applied, but I had a BSc and lots of volunteering that must have showed I was the person for the job.