Wellbeing Edition of Pulse Magazine by Swansea University. Find out all about our courses in Medicine, Life Science, Psychology and Healthcare through the staff and students who have risen to the challenge of post-pandemic life in order to succeed, as well as about living in Swansea.
RISING TO THE
Could you overcome adversity to succeed?
How Swansea is playing a vital role in training the NHS workforce of the future ADDRESSING NHS SHORTAGES
GLOBAL CHALLENGES
From making the most of UCAS to top tips for work-life balance - we’ve got it covered GETTING READY FOR UNIVERSITY
Post-pandemic wellbeing, long Covid and the benefits of big data
April 2022 | Vol 03 Wellbeing Edition
HEALTH AND WELLBEING OPEN DAYS 7
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ACADEMIC SUCCESS
SPORT
Our one million pound pioneering project provides state-of-the-art teaching and research facilities
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HEALTH AND WELLBEING
GLOBAL OPPORTUNITIES
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ACCOMMODATION
Gain on-campus placement experience and benefit the local community
Work with real patients using top-of-the-range equipment
www.swansea.ac.uk/hwa
Welcome from Professor Keith Lloyd
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Global Challenges: Wellbeing
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EMPLOYABILITY
6 things we’ve achieved post-pandemic
Spotlight on: Blended learning
Why I chose Swansea
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Addressing NHS shortages Global Challenges: Long Covid Spotlight on: British Sign Language
RESEARCH OPPORTUNITIES
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ON THE COVER: PhD Psychology student, Tennessee Randall, is also a world title holding kickboxer. Supported throughout her studies by the Talented Athlete Scholarship Scheme (TASS), Tennessee has carved a dual career at Swansea University, succeeding at kickboxing while also achieving a First Class BSc Psychology degree and a Master’s Degree in Clinical Psychology and Mental Health with Distinction. Cover Image: Tennessee Randall
Wellbeing
Young people’s mental health
Spotlight on: UCAS
This is Swansea: a local guide
Why Wales? An international perspective Why should you become an expert?
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WELSH LANGUAGE
CONTACT Swansea University Singleton Park
6 life saving projects
Teaching Excellence Framework
3D bio-printing using human cells Global Challenges: Big Data
Swansea SA2 8PP
+44(0)1792 295111 study@swansea.ac.uk swansea.ac.uk
Making headlines
FUNDING YOUR STUDIES
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Study with us
Mae’r ddogfen hon ar gael yn Gymraeg hefyd
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MAKING AN IMPACT...
IN THE
GLOBAL CHALLENGES:
OUT OF EVERY CHALLENGE COMES OPPORTUNITY. HERE AT SWANSEA UNIVERSITY WE HAVE RESPONDED TO EVERY CHALLENGE THAT COVID-19 HAS THROWN AT US. WELCOME TO THE THIRD EDITION OF PULSE MAGAZINE.
The Centre for Ageing and Dementia Research (CADR) launches its first app to support digital inclusion of older persons
SWANSEA NAMED IN UK TOP 10 FOR ENVIRONMENTAL PERFORMANCE Swansea University is one of the top ten universities in the UK for environmental and ethical issues, the new league table compiled by People and Planet, published by The Guardian, has revealed. People & Planet’s University League is the only comprehensive and independent league table of UK universities. £132 MILLION SWANSEA BAY CITY DEAL CAMPUSES PROJECT GIVEN THE GREEN LIGHT The Swansea Bay City Deal Campuses Project is supported by funding from the UK and Welsh Governments as part of the Swansea Bay City Deal. The investment will be used to promote innovation and business growth in the expanding Medical and Sports Technology sectors and lead to products like Smart Garments being developed. The project, which plans to generate over 1,000 jobs in the Swansea area, is predicted to be worth over £150 million to the regional economy by 2033. SWANSEA RANKED 26TH IN THE STONEWALL WORKPLACE EQUALITY INDEX Swansea University has been named in the UK’s top 100 most inclusive employers for LGBTQ+ staff, for the sixth time in a row. The Stonewall Top 100 Employers list is compiled from the Workplace Equality Index – the UK’s leading benchmarking tool for LGBTQ+ workplace inclusion.
AS WE BEGIN THE LONG ROAD TO RECOVERY FROM THE GLOBAL CORONAVIRUS PANDEMIC, THE IMPORTANCE OF WELLBEING AND ITS ROLE IN HUMAN HEALTH IS BEING BROUGHT TO THE FOREFRONT OF RESEARCH.
GENIAL Science is a collaborative research project between Swansea Bay University Health Board (SBUHB) and Swansea University, comprising academics, clinicians, PhD and MSc students. Funded by Health and Care Research Wales, the project is committed to advancing wellbeing theory and practice and the team behind it has developed a framework to help understand and improve ‘whole health’. Co-founder, Professor Andrew Kemp of Swansea University’s School of Psychology, explains: Society faces several major interrelated challenges, which have an increasingly profound impact on global health and it is incumbent on us in the university and research sector to work towards overcoming such challenges in order to promote individual, community and planetary health and wellbeing. Through the GENIAL Science project, we have identified the importance of promoting wellbeing when seeking to improve health, especially in regards to people
I am delighted to welcome you to the latest edition of our Pulse Magazine. Once again, the last year has brought about unprecedented change and uncertainty. But as we emerge from the pandemic, we have taken great pride in looking back at the accomplishments of our staff and students alike - both on academic and personal levels. Throughout this difficult period, we have seen wellbeing and mental health come into sharp focus in the public eye and, here at Swansea, these are areas of long-standing research interest. Post-pandemic, we have seen a great increase - and interest - in our research into young people’s mental health in particular; which in turn is influencing policies and plans for the future on a national level.
I am proud of both staff and student achievements this past year; they have shown great fortitude and resilience by overcoming adversities head-on, while continuing to support our local community, each other and the NHS. This edition of Pulse will give you a glimpse of some of the amazing work that has taken place this past year and I sincerely hope you can see yourself as part of our wonderful community in the future. The world needs bright, driven and caring people more than ever, people like you! I look forward to seeing you in Swansea very soon.
“Our theory has been applied to improve ‘whole health’ in various populations” Professor Kemp
living with chronic conditions whose conditions must be managed, and for whom cure is seldom an option. We have laid the foundations for a transdisciplinary scientific model of wellbeing that offers under-realised potential for promoting the ‘whole health’ of individuals, communities
now facing humanity including the climate catastrophe.
This research has been published in the Global Advances in Health and Medicine journal and led to a prestigious Advancing Health Care award
for Outstanding Contribution to Research Delivery.
and nature, contextualised by many of the major challenges
Professor Keith Lloyd Pro-Vice Chancellor, Executive Dean
READ MORE...
Interested in studying a course that will lead you to Postgraduate Research? Turn to Page 34 5
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The pandemic proved to us that nothing can stop innovation. Here are just some of the things we achieved as a direct result of Covid-19 that will continue to have a positive impact for years to come.
WELLBEING EDITION ROSS DAVEY BSc Medical Biochemistry Graduate MBBCh Medicine Student
6 THINGS WE’VE
“I was initially apprehensive about my course turning to a blended format as I was unsure how it would impact my studies. However, I soon found benefits to this style of learning and enjoy having face-to-face sessions which are complemented by the virtual format other lectures take.
“Online sessions can make it easier to plan other events in my day, where I would otherwise have to commit to being on campus for long periods of time between face-to-face lectures. Many virtual lectures are recorded, meaning taught content is more accessible and I can easily re-watch these videos later to aid my exam revision. Online teaching offers a different perspective to education, which can feel strange at times, but when paired with face-to-face teaching they make for a powerful learning experience.”
COME AND SEE
“I would definitely recommend Swansea University to other international students based on the amount of support that is provided. The professors and staff here are incredibly helpful and friendly - I can just talk to them directly without any hesitation!“ Hiu Lam Chau, BSc Psychology from Hong Kong
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SPOTLIGHT ON
WEBINAR SERIES
TASTER LECTURES AND INFORMATION SESSIONS Find out more about what it’s like to be a student at the Faculty of Medicine, Health and Life Science with everything from top tips on preparing your application to subject-specific student guides.
Post-pandemic, the traditional 9-5 routine seems a thing of the past. More than ever before, work-life balance sits high on everyone’s list of priorities. We recognise that agile working and blended learning are key to achieving this. Not only does flexibility lead to enhanced teaching and learning experiences for students and teachers alike, it also has a range of other benefits, such as financial savings and improved environmental impact. So how do we find the balance in work-life balance? Here are our top tips:
FIND OUT MORE AND REGISTER:
On-campus teaching is essential for practical and skills-based learning, but what about lectures, revision and group work?
Setting yourself up with the right equipment, software and work space is essential to getting the most out of your studies There’s nothing worse than having to clear away your notes mid-session so you can use the table for dinner. Investing (time and effort - not just financially) in setting up a workstation that is fit-for- purpose will give you the designated space you need to get into ‘study mode’ - and free space for your free time.
TENNESSEE RANDALL PhD Student
The Centre for Academic Success is here to support you in developing your academic study skills and achieve your goals. We can help you bridge the gap between where you are and where you need to be.
Get to know what’s expected of you so you can plan how you want to use the rest of your time. Colour-coding the different types of activities in your calendar not only ensures you know where you’re meant to be and when, it also helps to visualise your free time.
“When I graduated with my undergraduate degree, I had no idea what the future held for me academically. Fast forward two years and I have completed my Master’s and received an offer to study a PhD at Swansea University under a research scholarship. The ESRC only awarded two psychology students in Wales, and I was lucky enough to be one of them. I am so excited to continue my next educational chapter where I am on the path to becoming Dr Randall.”
• Improve your writing • Refresh your maths skills
• Build your stats knowledge • Develop critical thinking • Manage your time better • Enhance your digital skills • Sharpen your communication skills • Learn how to avoid plagiarism
Whatever the format of your learning experience - make the most of it! Whether you’re sat at home listening in to a lecture or working side-by-side with your peers in a lab or simulation suite, be present. Our teaching staff have a wealth of knowledge and experience to share with you - asking and answering questions is one of the best ways of consolidating learning and expanding your knowledge base.
swansea.ac.uk/academic-success
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PULSE Current Psychology student Jemimah shares her reasons for choosing Swansea There’s a Dylan Thomas quote where he says, “This sea-town was my world” ...I think that’s what Swansea and the University become when you live here. I loved how Swansea felt as a university and I loved how close it was to my family. I remember going to the open day while I was still doing my A-Levels, and my dad and I agreed it just felt like a second home to me almost immediately. It still does today almost three years later. Psychology sets you up so well for a huge range of possible futures. That’s amazing to me! From the biology of the brain to social aspects of society...psychology covers it all. Studying during the pandemic has definitely been challenging. It has had its advantages and online assessments absolutely suit my learning style better than traditional exams. But keeping motivated and feeling like you’re part of the university experience online was hard. I think Swansea did (and is still doing) a great job at adapting to the change and accommodating for a truly difficult couple years. After I graduate, I’m planning to get some experience and volunteer work within the psychology sector, hopefully involving children and vulnerable adults. Then, after a couple of years, I plan to do my master’s. I would definitely recommend Swansea University to other students. It has an amazing feel as a university. There’s such a pull to love it, and the university itself is great for so many things. My friends and I have big love for this place.
LAURYN DAVEY MBBCh Medicine Student
There’s a reason that everyone and their dog tells you to join a society when you get to Uni...it’s the best way to make friends, learn new things and have fun. We have over 150 societies and clubs to join, from the University Challenge Society, to the Trampolining Society, and even a VegSoc. Whether you’re a top baker, master archer or an ancient studies enthusiast, we have the society for you, including some fantastic medicine and healthcare related ones...
“I chose to study at Swansea to continue my training set up in Wales - it’s a positive environment to be based at and supports both my sporting and academic needs. I represent Wales at an international level in athletics and have been nominated to compete at the 2022 Commonwealth Games. I use off season in winter to prioritise my study, so when competition season arises I am ahead of my work.” SWANSEA UNIVERSITY HAS ACHIEVED TALENTED ATHLETE SCHOLARSHIP SCHEME (TASS) DUAL CAREER ACCREDITATION
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With sporting opportunities to suit all of our students, from elite and international athletes to complete beginners, there is something for everyone.
swansea.ac.uk/sport
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WELLBEING EDITION
@UKinZimbabwe
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DID YOU KNOW... If you can commit to working for NHS Wales for two years after graduation, you will be eligible for the NHS Wales Bursary Scheme plus maintenance funding and a reduced rate loan from Student Finance.
WELLBEING EDITION
GLOBAL CHALLENGES:
ADDRESSING
DID YOU KNOW... Long Covid has been estimated to affect at least 10% of people who test positive for Covid-19. The latest estimates suggest over a million people are living with the condition in the UK.
PERSONALISED REHABILITATION PROGRAMMES FOR PATIENTS WITH LONG COVID ARE TO BE DEVELOPED AS PART OF A NEW RESEARCH PROJECT THANKS TO £1.1 MILLION OF UK GOVERNMENT FUNDING.
SWANSEA CONTINUES TO PLAY A VITAL ROLE IN TRAINING THE HEALTHCARE WORKFORCE OF THE FUTURE WITH NEW COURSES ADDED TO OUR FULLY-FUNDED TRAINING OPTIONS AND WIDENING ACCESS FOR UNDER-REPRESENTED GROUPS.
People with long Covid experience a wide variety of ongoing problems such as tiredness and difficulty with everyday tasks, meaning they can struggle to return to their former lives. This can then be made worse by uncertainty and a lack of understanding around the diagnosis. There are currently no real treatment options, so developing effective interventions to help people cope and overcome their condition is crucial for this growing, yet under-served, patient group. The project, known as LISTEN, has been funded through the National Institute for Health Research (NIHR). It brings together expertise from St George’s, University of London and Kingston University, Cardiff University and Swansea University and involves the design and evaluation of a self-management intervention for people suffering with long Covid. Proposals for these new ways to support people with long Covid include a book, digital resources and a new training package for health professionals. Project researchers will not only
Here at Swansea University, we lead the way in training the next generation of NHS and healthcare professionals and this has been recognised with a range of new fully-funded courses, including BSc Occupational Therapy, BSc Operating Department Practitioner and Learning Disability Nursing. For almost three decades, our innovative approach to teaching coupled with our dedication to improving healthcare delivery has placed us at the forefront of training the workforce of tomorrow, for the NHS in Wales and beyond. This makes us the ideal place for you if you are looking to take the first step towards a healthcare career.
Your options
Healthcare Sciences • Audiology • Cardiac Physiology • Medical Engineering • Nuclear Medicine • Neurophysiology • Radiotherapy Physics • Radiation Physics • Respiratory and Sleep Physiology • Rehabilitation Engineering Medicine Midwifery Nursing • Adult • Child • Learning Disability • Mental Health Occupational Therapy Operating Department Practitioner Paramedic Science Physician Associate Studies
We strongly believe that the NHS workforce here in Wales, and beyond, should fully reflect our diverse society so we are committed to widening access to our healthcare courses through the use of contextual offers. Contextual offers take into account a variety of factors that may have had an effect on your educational attainment, which might prevent you from accessing higher education. We use additional information from your application form alongside our standard admissions requirements
“The COVID-19 pandemic has put into sharp focus how limited our health and care resources are” Dr Berni Sewell
be analysing how clinically effective the intervention is, but also how cost-effective.
every new intervention is not only effective but also cost-effective. Being involved as health economists in the LISTEN study is an amazing opportunity to support the development of an intervention that improves outcomes and
Dr Berni Sewell, Senior Lecturer at the Swansea Centre for Health Economics at the University’s School of Health and Social Care explains: The COVID-19 pandemic has put into sharp focus how limited our health and care resources are. It is our responsibility to ensure
to give you the best chance of achieving the healthcare career you dream of.
experiences for this fast-growing patient group, whilst also ensuring we sustain our health service and quality of care for the future.
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Want to work for the NHS? Turn to page 34 to find out more about our Healthcare courses
PULSE
WELLBEING EDITION
SPOTLIGHT ON
DR PAULA ROW Faculty Disability Co-ordinator
“As a Disability Coordinator, I help students with disabilities such as learning difficulties, mental health conditions or physical disabilities, to access student support teams across campus and to obtain the help and support that they need. This will take the form of a tailored support plan, which could include provision of reasonable adjustments such as extra time in exams, deadline extensions, a caseworker, a mentor, lab assistant or notetaker.
SWANSEA STUDENTS ARE HELPING TO ADDRESS BARRIERS IN HEALTHCARE PROVISION WHILE WORKING TO INCREASE THEIR KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS AND EXPERIENCE OF THE NEEDS OF THE DEAF COMMUNITY.
swansea.ac.uk/ student-support-services new routines and learn new skills, like laundry and cooking, and find different ways to overcome the things you find challenging. 2. Talk with friends and family about the changes you may experience when you arrive. Get help to practise Every student has the right to feel supported during their time at university and we offer a range of options to suit individual needs. We have online resources, services and workshops, support sessions and specialist support for students with long-term difficulties. SUPPORT Preparation is key to settling into university quickly so be sure that you: 1. Tell us about your disability, learning difficulties, mental health, ASC or medical condition as soon as possible so that we can offer our full support from application through to graduation. We can help you access: • Additional funding • Adjustments and assistive technology • Adapted accommodation • Personal care support
British Sign Language (BSL) is used by over 150,000 people in the UK and is the fourth most commonly used language. However, many people are still unable to access essential information and services in BSL, including in healthcare, which can negatively impact the physical and mental health of deaf people in Wales. Deaf people are already at twice the risk of mental health problems and find it extremely difficult to get help as services rarely provide accessible information or culturally relevant services. To help address these barriers, Swansea students have been working to increase their knowledge, skills and experience of the needs of the deaf community, as well as gain a broader understanding of deaf culture. Their aim is to provide a higher standard of care and support, working to build a more inclusive and effective health service for deaf people and their families.
“There is also a wide range of support services available through the Wellbeing Team - without the need for medical evidence - including short-term mental health intervention, Autistic Spectrum Condition (ASC) support and counselling as well as open-access support services at the University, such as the Listening Service, Bereavement Support and Togetherall. There’s plenty of help available - don’t be afraid to ask.”
HEALTH AND WELLBEING
• Graduate Entry Medicine students are completing a 6-week tailored BSL taster course to learn the alphabet, basic signs and structures, as well as medically-related signs and conversations to be able to support BSL users in a range of healthcare settings, from GP appointments to emergency care • Nursing staff and students are developing an e-learning deaf awareness package to equip healthcare professionals with the skills to support deaf people through their healthcare journey, including top tips and best practice guides Find out more about some of the challenges faced by deaf
STATE-OF-THE-ART TEACHING AND RESEARCH FACILITIES GAIN ON-CAMPUS PLACEMENT EXPERIENCE
BENEFIT THE LOCAL COMMUNITY
WORK WITH REAL PATIENTS USING TOP-OF-THE-RANGE EQUIPMENT
people in Wales in the report by
Deaf People Wales: Hidden Inequality
swansea.ac.uk/hwa
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MAKING AN IMPACT...
YOUNG PEOPLE’S
Dr Emily Marchant was shortlisted for the ESRC’s Celebrating Impact Prize for her pioneering research into child mental health
IN RESPONSE TO THE INCREASE IN ANXIETY, DEPRESSION, SELF-HARM AND SUICIDE OVER THE LAST DECADE, OUR MULTI-DISCIPLINARY RESEARCH IS TRANSFORMING THE UNDERSTANDING, CARE AND OUTCOMES OF YOUNG PEOPLE WITH POOR MENTAL HEALTH
Our work on young people’s mental health is developed in partnership with young people and our research rapidly translated into policy and practice including resources for schools and youth workers and guidance for practice. With over £3million in funding over the last five years, we lead the Adolescent Mental Health Data Platform and the Data Science theme of the Wolfson Centre for Young People’s Mental Health. One study led by Professor Ann John highlighted the importance of integrated school-based and healthcare strategies to support young peoples’ engagement with education. Children with poor mental health, who are neurodiverse or who self-harm often struggle at school. Absences and exclusions may provide a useful tool to identify those who require additional support. Early intervention will not only reduce immediate distress and difficulties for the young person but may also interrupt poor life trajectories and improve outcomes in later life.
PROFESSOR ANN JOHN Research focuses on young people’s mental health
“The time between the ages of 11 and 24 is a period of huge change and with that change can come quite unsettling feelings and emotions that are part of normal human experience. One of the most unsettling times is around exam results and what that can do is make you feel really anxious. Anxiety can present in all sorts of ways. Some people are quite aware that they’re feeling anxious - for example if their heart beats a bit faster - but anxiety can also feel like a knot in your stomach or a lump in your throat and those feelings are almost a human response to what you’re experiencing as a threat, which goes back to quite a primitive ‘fight or flight’ idea. Often these feelings will just pass but if you’re finding that they’re keeping you up at night or you’re worrying, or it’s affecting if you want to see your friends - that’s when anxiety is getting too much. One of the things you can do is distract yourself - try breathing in and out slowly, make a playlist or do something physical like going for a walk, talking with friends or mindful activities like colouring. The important thing to remember is that all things pass. If you’re worried about your grades or choices, give us a call as we have people here to help you. Just talking your options through can really help to clear your mind.”
“Half of all mental health problems are established by the age of 14, and three quarters by age 24” Professor Ann John
Post-pandemic, education leaders have also been urged to prioritise social interaction for children of all ages following surveys led by researchers from the National Centre for Population Health & Wellbeing Research. Whilst they may have been seen as the ones least vulnerable to transmission and the negative health impacts of Covid-19, pandemic restrictions disrupted young people’s
education, physical activity and opportunities to socialise. Dr Michaela James, from the Centre, added: It is important that education settings recognise the importance of the wellbeing of their students and prioritise their wants and needs rather than focussing on education ‘catch up’ and assessment pressure.
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MAKE YOURSELF
CHECK YOUR CONDITIONS Most offers will be Conditional – meaning you need to complete qualifications or actions before your place is 100% secure. • Conditions will be outlined DID YOU KNOW... UCAS is on hand all year round to guide you through the entire process from your initial course search right through to confirmation.
HOPE HENRY Clearing Applicant
SPOTLIGHT ON
“I had a big shock on A Level results day when it turned out that my exams had not gone quite as well as I had hoped. Everything felt like complete chaos until I received a phone call from Swansea University, who talked me through my options. I accepted a place on a Pathway to Medicine course as studying Medicine was my ultimate end goal. I can wholeheartedly say that this was the best decision I have ever made.”
KEY DATES Everyone knows about the big January deadline for applications but there are lots of other key dates too… • UCAS opens in early
BEAT THE CLEARING RUSH Make the most of your application from the start: • You can apply for 5 courses at any one time so be sure to keep your options open by making the most of all five space on your application form.
September each year so you can start (and submit!) any time you like from then. The UCAS deadline for Medicine (plus all Oxford and Cambridge courses) is 15th October every year…no matter what day of the week it lands on! The UCAS deadline for all other subjects is in January and this date has varied a little in recent years so be sure to check in advance. UCAS Extra opens in late- February and you can start making changes again from now right up until Clearing. Your decision deadline will depend on when you receive your last offer ... if you receive decisions from all your course choices by the end of March, you’ll need to confirm your Firm and Insurance choices by early May. If you’re not holding an offer that you’re happy with by July, you can pre-register for Clearing . Although offers often can’t be confirmed until results day, it’s worth researching early and making contact with admissions tutors to check if spaces are likely to be available.
in your offer on UCAS Track but we’ll also send you emails with guidance on what you need to do next. For healthcare courses, this will include getting a DBS Check and Occupational Health Assessment and you won’t be able to take part in any practical elements of your courses until these are complete – at best. Worst case scenario is that you’ll forfeit your offer!
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If you don’t use all 5 straight away, you can add new choices to your application right up to the January deadline – even after you’ve submitted. You can also add new choices throughout UCAS Extra on a one-out one-in basis so if you
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don’t hold the offer you want by February, you can apply for something/somewhere else on UCAS Track until early July. Clinical Admissions Manager, James Kerr, explains: “This is particularly relevant for Medicine applicants, who can only choose four Medicine courses. Commonly known as a ‘5th Choice’, more and more applicants are applying for an alternative course as a fall-back in case they miss out on Medicine at interview. Our Pathways to Medicine are increasing in popularity for 5th Choice as they come with a guaranteed interview for our Graduate Entry Medicine course, so you can still become a Doctor.”
ABBIE THOMAS Foundation Year Graduate
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Once you’ve accepted your offer, you’ll be able to apply for accommodation and finance and the earlier you do both of these the better.
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Our dedicated teams are on hand to support you along the way:
“I hadn’t studied any science since doing my GCSEs. I am so grateful to Swansea University for putting faith in me and giving me the opportunity to pursue my dreams of being a doctor. All of the staff are amazing, supportive and inspirational and have created an incredible foundation year that covered everything I needed for the BSc.” WINNER OF THE 2021 BRITISH PHARMACOLOGICAL SOCIETY PHARMACOLOGY MATTERS WRITING COMPETITION
IF YOU DON’T MEET YOUR GRADES, DON’T PANIC! We have a place for you at Swansea, even if things don’t go quite to plan on results day. With over 300 courses, we’ll work with you to find the right one for you. Contact our Clearing Hotline on results day to discuss your options: 0800 094 9071
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Free wifi 24/7 launderette Adapted rooms available Options to suit your preferences
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swansea.ac.uk/accommodation
THIS IS
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WELLBEING EDITION
LIBERTY STADIUM SWANSEA.COM STADIUM
M4 & CARDIFF
SWANSEA STATION SWANSEA STATION
A483
SINGLETON PARK SINGLETON PARK
WIND STREET
CITY CENTRE
WIND STREET
SINGLETON HOSPITAL
HOSPITAL
BAY CAMPUS
SPORTS VILLAGE
SPORTS VILLAGE
MARINA
Our city by the sea with an unrivalled beachfront location allows you to make the most of the seaside whilst still enjoying the bustle of city life.
SINGLETON PARK CAMPUS
SWANSEA IS: 4 hours from Manchester 3 hours from Birmingham and London 2 hours from Bath and Bristol 1 hour from Cardiff Cardiff, Bristol and Heathrow airports are easy to get to from Swansea too!
MUMBLES
GOWER PENINSULA
GOWER PENINSULA With over 19 miles of beautiful coastline to explore, you can spend your time hiking the limestone peaks of Three Cliffs Bay, surfing some of the UK’s best waves in Llangennith or simply marvelling the rugged beauty of Rhossili Bay.
MUMBLES The University’s neighbour is the cosy beachfront village of Mumbles; home to Victoria Pier and Oystermouth Castle, streets of boutique shops and independent eateries, along with the famous Verdi’s and Joe’s Ice cream parlours.
SINGLETON CAMPUS Located on Singleton campus, the Medical School, School of Health and Social Care and School of Psychology are nestled beautifully between Swansea Bay’s beachfront and leafy Singleton Park, perfect for lunchtime picnics and weekend beach days.
UPLANDS The student hub of the Uplands is home to trendy bars and eateries, the best hangover cure in Wales (thank you Uplands Diner for your Mega Beast Breakfast!), convenience shops and monthly Uplands Markets, and some of the best views in the city.
MARINA When the sea calls, there’s nowhere better. Come here for everything from big-night-out bars, to the Dylan Thomas Theatre, the National Waterfront Museum and a bustling monthly market full of local produce.
EXPLORING THE CITY In Swansea’s city centre you can shop the high street and Wales’ largest indoor market, treat your inner culture vulture at the Glynn Vivian Art Gallery or sample the variety of eateries, bars and pubs of Swansea’s (in)famous Wind Street.
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DID YOU KNOW... We offer dedicated support to our international students with events and scholarships designed to help you achieve your career goals.
PULSE
SPOTLIGHT ON
WEBINAR SERIES
INTERNATIONAL STUDENT WEBINARS Find out more about what it’s like to be an international student at the Faculty of Medicine, Health and Life Science with everything from top tips on preparing your application to student guides from a wide range of countries.
STUDYING AT SWANSEA UNIVERSITY YOU’LL BECOME PART OF A WORLD- CLASS RESEARCH INSTITUTION WITH GRAND AMBITIONS. OUR CAMPUSES ARE VIBRANT AND DIVERSE WITH STAFF AND STUDENTS FROM OVER 130 DIFFERENT COUNTRIES.
LOVELYN OBIAKOR MSc Public Health and Health Promotion from Nigeria
FIND OUT MORE AND REGISTER:
“Seeing young children die from high fever and women die during labour were the most traumatising experiences of my childhood. I felt I had to do something about it, no matter what it took.
“As I was raised in a community where girls were not generally sent to school, I had to challenge the status quo to believe I could study pharmacy and one day help mine and other remote communities. I look forward to delivering on long-term, strategic projects and initiatives in Nigeria which promote inclusive and quality healthcare and education.” HOLDER OF THE 2021 EIRA FRANCIS DAVIES SCHOLARSHIP, AWARDED ANNUALLY TO ONE OUTSTANDING FEMALE STUDENT WHO IS A NATIONAL OF AND RESIDENT IN AN ELIGIBLE DEVELOPING COUNTRY AND WHO PURSUES A POSTGRADUATE TAUGHT MASTER’S PROGRAMME IN HEALTH OR LIFE SCIENCES.
Swansea University aims to offer all its undergraduate students the opportunity to study or work overseas. We have partnerships with over 150 universities across the world and offer a wide range of year, semester and summer abroad options.
MAANASY NADARAJAH AMS Graduate
By studying, working or volunteering overseas, you will ensure you stand out from the crowd, develop new skills and an invaluable international network for your future beyond graduation.
“I took part in a six week summer internship in Baylor College of Medicine in Texas. I honestly expected that I would be fetching coffee or just shadowing people without really participating. In reality, however, it was the complete opposite: I was treated as an equal and was encouraged to speak my mind about any ideas I had. The experience has made me much more confident in speaking to others and presenting my ideas.”
YUXI TAO BSc Psychology from China
Employers acknowledge that spending time abroad: • Builds confidence, self-awareness and maturity
• Develops a global perspective and intercultural awareness • Facilitates adaptability to new environments and challenges • Improves communication and language skills • Develops transferable skills to help your future career
“Psychology has changed my thinking and given me a more profound and precise understanding of my people, things, and environments. Studying at Swansea University has provided me with a multicultural learning environment, allowing me to study psychology from the perspective of other cultures. “Swansea University offers a variety of support for international students during their
studies in the UK. For example, psychological support, covid-19 financial assistance, and much more. The city is beautiful; the locals are friendly; the university has an intense academic atmosphere and offers a wide range of employment opportunities. It is very friendly towards Chinese international students here and I recommend to my friends back home to join this open and inclusive university.”
swansea.ac.uk/goglobal
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DID YOU KNOW... You could take the first steps towards a career as a leading expert with one of our MSci degrees - a 4-year integrated undergraduate Master’s in a Life Science.
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WHY SHOULD YOU
THE PANDEMIC HAS HAD A LASTING EFFECT ON HEALTH AND WELLBEING, WITH RESEARCH URGENTLY NEEDED TO UNDERSTAND THE FULL IMPACT ON HEALTHCARE AND SOCIAL CARE SERVICES.
BECOMING AN EXPERT GIVES YOU THE POWER TO MAKE A POSITIVE AND LASTING EFFECT ON THE LIVES OF PEOPLE ON A GLOBAL SCALE, SUPPORTING LEADERS TO MAKE INFORMED DECISIONS ON RUNNING OUR HEALTHCARE SERVICES, MANAGING FUTURE HEALTH CRISES AND ENSURING THAT PUBLIC HEALTH REMAINS A TOP PRIORITY.
Explore our Podcast Series to find out more about how our ground-breaking research has been making an impact globally.
Health and Care Research Wales awarded vital funding to six projects at Swansea University’s Faculty of Medicine, Health and Life Science, all of which aim to provide life-saving insights into the impact of the pandemic
IN MATTERS OF PUBLIC HEALTH, WHO DOES THE PUBLIC REALLY TRUST? A research team led by the University of Colorado Boulder, supported by colleagues from the US, Sweden, Israel, Austria, Italy, Singapore and the UK, studied participants’ political views, alongside their opinions on Covid-19 policies. The 13,000 participants, from 7 countries worldwide, were asked their political views, then to share their support for two Covid-19 policies, one for public health measures, and the other supporting economic recovery. Dr Gabriela Jiga-Boy from Swansea University’s School of Psychology, who was part of the team, explains: We take cues from our leaders (or partisan elites) because that’s what we’re supposed to do. But partisan elites often create barriers to combatting shared threats such as COVID. They ‘polarise’ public opinion with their words, actions or merely their presence.
Through the Covid-19 pandemic people all over the world have been looking to our leaders to make the right decisions for our health, safety and wellbeing. In turn, leaders and decision-makers have been looking to experts in the fields of medicine and science to help inform policies to slow the spread of Covid-19 and keep as many people as possible safe from the deadly virus. However, policies such as mask- wearing, community lockdowns and vaccine mandates have been increasingly polarised by political parties, with politicians, world leaders and the general public, supporting or opposing public health and safety measures in line with the opinions of their political party, often in contradiction to the scientifically- backed advice of experts.
PROFESSOR SHAREEN DOAK
on healthcare services and its users in Wales.
Nanotoxicology - it’s in the little things
1.
The impact of COVID-19 on health equality and mortality in people with
The awards range from Social Care Research Fellowships ,
epilepsy in Wales Determining best
which provide talented individuals with support to become independent
2.
The research concluded that even though participants were more likely to support policies that were linked to their political party, all participants, regardless of their political views, supported policies proposed by experts and bipartisan coalitions. Dr Jiga-Boy concluded: Our results show the importance of maintaining experts as nonpartisan, in order to preserve public trust in them. A solution is to take the politicians out of the communication and put the experts in the foreground to help avoid issues getting polarised. Find out more about
preventative social care practice in the contexts of older people receiving care and support at home and those living with Dementia
PROFESSOR RONAN LYONS
researchers while undertaking high-quality research projects benefiting social care in Wales, to Health Research Grants , that support high-
Responding to Covid-19 using Big Data
3.
The health economic impact of COVID-19
quality research projects with clear relevance to
on care and support for people over 65 years old Sunproofed: A mixed methods evaluation of sun safety policies in primary schools in Wales The impact of cessation of screening for diabetic eye disease on people with diabetes during the COVID-19 pandemic Mapping service cold spots from COVID-19 lockdowns
health and wellbeing need, organisation or delivery of health care services in Wales. Findings from these vital research projects could make great improvements to the health, care and wellbeing of some of the most vulnerable and impacted members of society and help to improve policies and services on healthcare provision in Wales, the UK and beyond.
DR CLAIRE WILLIAMS
4.
A Silent Epidemic: Acquired Brain Injury
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these, and many more findings, on our research pages:
Listen and subscribe to the series at: swansea.ac.uk/podcasts
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MAKING AN IMPACT...
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WELLBEING EDITION
3D BIO-PRINTING
KATIE EVANS BSc Health and Social Care Student SPIN Work Placement
“Work placements are an excellent way of gaining first hand experiences in different fields of work. During my studies, I undertook a paid internship through the University’s SPIN programme. As part of this, I helped to develop and deliver a networking event to help other students explore career opportunities. I am now in contact with organisations who attended the event so have started to build my own network - it’s been well worth taking on the little bit of extra work load.” SPIN (THE SWANSEA PAID INTERNSHIP NETWORK) CONNECTS SWANSEA STUDENTS TO EMPLOYERS ACROSS ALL SECTORS FOR 4-WEEK GRADUATE-LEVEL INTERNSHIPS THROUGHOUT THE YEAR. OFFERED FULL-TIME DURING THE HOLIDAYS AND PART TIME DURING TERM, ALL INTERNSHIPS ARE SUPPORTED BY OUR EMPLOYABILITY SPECIALISTS TO ENSURE THAT BOTH THE BUSINESS AND THE STUDENT GET THE MOST OUT OF THE EXPERIENCE.
ONE IN 100 PEOPLE IN THE UK HAVE A SIGNIFICANT FACIAL DIFFERENCE AND THIS CAN HAVE A PROFOUND EFFECT ON MENTAL HEALTH. OUR PIONEERING £2.5M RESEARCH INTO 3D BIOPRINTING USING HUMAN CELLS IS SET TO CHANGE THE LIVES OF PEOPLE ACROSS THE GLOBE.
In March 2022, HRH The Countess of Wessex, patron to The Scar Free Foundation, visited the world- leading facial reconstruction research programme based at the Medical School’s Institute of Life Science, meeting ambassadors and patients who could benefit from the ground- breaking studies. The Countess of Wessex was accompanied by lead Ambassador for The Scar Free Foundation, Falklands Veteran Simon Weston. HRH The Countess of Wessex meets patients in Swansea to help break the stigma of facial scarring
A world-leading research programme to revolutionise surgeons’ ability to reconstruct nose and ear cartilage in patients affected by facial difference has been launched at Swansea University Medical School. Funded by the Scar Free Foundation, the only medical research charity that focuses solely on scarring, and Health and Care Research Wales, the three-year programme will have a global impact, advancing not only 3D bioprinting of cartilage but also examining how facial scarring affects mental health by analysing data from the world’s largest cohort of people living with facial scarring. Professor Sir Bruce Keogh, of the Scar Free Foundation, explains: Giving surgeons the ability in the future to reconstruct people’s faces using their own cells without the need for further scarring is revolutionary. The pioneering programme will develop 3D bioprinting using human cartilage specific stem/progenitor cells and nanocellulose (derived from plants) as a bioink for facial reconstruction. The project will include scientific studies to determine the ideal combination of cells to grow new cartilage which will lead to human clinical trials for facial reconstruction.
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The research is being led by Professor Iain Whitaker, Chair of Plastic Surgery at the Medical School, who also heads up the biggest plastic surgery research group in the UK, is part of the team at the Welsh Centre for Burns and Plastic Surgery at Morriston Hospital and Surgical Specialty Lead for Health and Care Research Wales. He adds: Alongside the tissue engineering and 3D bioprinting research, we are critically analysing the patient pathways in skin cancer management and using cutting edge technologies such as artificial intelligence to revolutionise these patient pathways. This innovative research collaboration is bridging gaps across disciplines to address the challenges experienced by those with facial scarring, bringing together surgeons and mental health researchers under one roof to tackle both the physical and mental health care required for both initial recovery and living a full life thereafter.
FOR CAREER PROSPECTS
Develop your career, employability and entrepreneurship with the Swansea Employability Academy. We help our students achieve the careers they deserve. The University offers a variety of paid work experiences and careers advice through its dedicated employability and enterprise team. • Careers fairs • Entrepreneurial activities • Alumni networking • Placements • Funding towards events run by your chosen Students’ Union society • Help to start your own business at the end of your studies
Mr Weston, who has scars over 85-90 per cent of his body after a bomb hit his ship in the Falklands conflict, said: The opportunity to rebuild the confidence of people who have facial and body disfigurements is immense. You can’t change what happens to people but through this research and development you can change what their future can look like.
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swansea.ac.uk/sea
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MAKING AN IMPACT...
GLOBAL CHALLENGES:
WEBINAR SERIES
RESEARCH AND INNOVATION WEBINARS Find out more about some of the ground-breaking and world-leading research currently taking place at the Faculty of Medicine, Health and Life Science and how you can get involved as a research student or collaborator.
Professor Ronan Lyons was appointed OBE in the New Year’s Honours for his services to Research, Innovation and Public Health
ADMINISTRATIVE DATA RESEARCH WALES CONTINUES TO LEAD THE WAY ON CUTTING-EDGE DATA ANALYSIS TECHNIQUES AND RESEARCH EXCELLENCE TO DELIVER ROBUST, SECURE AND INFORMATIVE RESEARCH WITH ALMOST £17 MILLION ADDITIONAL ESRC FUNDING.
Administrative Data Research Wales (ADR Wales) unites research expertise from Swansea University Medical School and the Wales Institute of Social and Economic Research and Data (WISERD) at Cardiff University with analysts from Welsh Government. Working alongside the world-renowned SAIL Databank, its team of specialist researchers, analysts and data scientists tackle key areas identified by Welsh Government, such as education, mental health and housing. ADR Wales played a pivotal role in informing understanding and subsequent decision making at policy level during the pandemic in both Wales and across the UK, with its researchers working to understand the spread of the pandemic in Wales and its impact on people and services. It will continue to assist decision making in Wales by providing timely insights on issues affecting the population, while addressing the secondary impact of the pandemic on people and services. Professor David Ford, ADR Wales Co- Director and Professor of Informatics at Swansea University, explains:
FIND OUT MORE AND REGISTER:
APRIL REES BSc Biochemistry and PhD Graduate “I completed my Biochemistry BSc in Swansea in 2017, where I was introduced to the world of immunology. I stayed to undertake my PhD, investigating the changes the immune system experiences in pregnancy. As a result of the pandemic, my research has grown to encompass COVID-19 and pregnancy, lipidomics, and obesity as part of a collaborative research project with the University of Aberdeen.”
“This continued partnership will enable us to access a richer evidence base” Rebecca Evans, Minister for Finance and Local Government
Research plays a central role in our success. We are at the forefront of medical, health and life science research, actively supporting staff and students to build working relationships with counterparts overseas. Our world-leading research staff are actively looking for research students to supervise. Studying a research degree at Swansea will give you access to: • State-of-the-art research facilities • International collaborators • Grant-writing expertise • Enhanced career prospects
To date, our programme of work has produced significant outputs which have helped to shape key areas of public policy in Wales. We look forward to the next four years as we continue to pioneer safe data practices and demonstrate the role that de-identified data can play, when used safely, securely and correctly, in helping
to inform decision making both in Wales and throughout the UK. ADR Wales and the SAIL Databank are based at the state-of-the-art Data Science Building, which is also home to our postgraduate programmes in Health Informatics and Health Data Science.
swansea.ac.uk/postgraduate/research
Interested in Big Data? Turn to Page 34 to find out more about our Postgraduate courses
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