We sat down with Lauryn Kirkham to find out all about here experience of studying here at SMB College Group!
Lauryn is a former Level 3 Sport student who continued with us to complete her Foundation Degree in Sport Science - and will soon be progressing further to complete her Degree on our BSc Sport Science & Strength and Conditioning (Top-up) programme.
Lauryn studies at SMB College Group’s Brooksby Campus, home to the college’s £3.6 million specialist sports complex, housing a sports hall, 3G pitch, sports lab, and 3 full-sized rugby pitches; as well as an indoor and outdoor strength and conditioning suite. Along with an industry-expert lecturing team and some exciting elite sporting partnerships, these fantastic facilities combine to make perfect environment for students to develop their analytical skills and knowledge in both practical and theory-based sessions.
We talked with Lauryn about why she chose SMB College Group, her plans for her career and her advice for future students.
What interested you in applying for the Sports Science Foundation Degree programme at SMB College Group?
I studied Level 3 Sport at SMB College Group for 2 years prior to the FdSc course, and this is where I first heard about the course. I was shown the different modules we would be studying and introduced to the tutors - this is one of the factors that led me to apply for the FdSc course.
In addition, we were told that we would be in a small class, unlike that of a regular university where classes are usually 50+. This was the main selling point for me as it made me feel more confident in the fact that I would get as much 1-1 help as possible if I wanted or needed it.
What has been your favourite module on the course?
I have loved the Specific Populations module - this module has helped me to decide what I will be writing my dissertation on. It has allowed me to explore training and programming for a range of different people like children, ante- and post-natal women and the elderly. It has also helped me to decide on a potential future career of working as a PT and supporting women during their pregnancy.
What have you struggled with, and how have the tutors supported you?
In the first year I struggled with the Performance Analysis module and the tutor for this (Jack Green) spent a lot of time with me, giving 1-1 support to help me to understand the process and technology better.
How has the course helped you decide on a future career?
As I spoke a bit about earlier, I have developed a strong interest in the Specific Populations module. This interest has led me to explore a career in Personal Training with people who have contraindications (more specifically, pregnant women).
What other courses have you started and experiences have you gained since starting on the FdSc?
Alongside the FdSc course, I have also had the opportunity to enrol onto a Level 2/3 Personal Training course with the college, which will provide me with the qualifications needed to get into the career I am most interested in, as well as offering me more experience within the field. I have also worked as a Strength & Conditioning intern for the Leicester Tigers Development squad, planning and leading sessions and conducting fitness testing on the players.
What is the best piece of advice for people who have just started or who have applied to start the course in September?
My best piece of advice would be to start every assignment as early as possible! Give yourself as much time as you can to complete the work and always make sure to speak to the tutors if you’re struggling with anything!
If you’re interested in studying a Level 3 Sport programme, or a Foundation Degree or Top-up course at SMB College Group - there’s still time to apply for September! Find out more and make your application today at https://www.smbcollegegroup.ac.uk/