Jessica Wong
BSc (Hons) Physiotherapy, 2022
Hong Kong
An interesting component of the course is our work with what are called Multi-Disciplinary Teams, or “MDTs”, wherein we’re placed with students in other programmes that can be linked with physiotherapy.”
I am currently in the fourth and final year of my Physiotherapy degree at the University of the West of England, though my journey towards this profession began much earlier in Hong Kong through my background as a karate athlete. During my teenage years, I suffered a knee injury during a performance and underwent physiotherapy myself. Around the same time, my grandfather required rehabilitation following surgery. These experiences introduced me to the profession and inspired me to pursue it as a career. I became particularly interested in changing the common perception in Hong Kong that physiotherapy is simply exercise that does not require professional expertise. I wanted to promote a better understanding of the scientific knowledge and clinical reasoning behind effective physiotherapy treatment.
Initially, I hoped to study physiotherapy in Hong Kong, but places were extremely limited and highly competitive. I therefore explored opportunities abroad and discovered the International College pathway to UWE Bristol. Although I also received an offer from Liverpool, my family and I felt Bristol would provide a better environment in which to live and study. The course structure, practical components, and detailed information available on the university website convinced me it was the right choice.
I arrived in the UK in 2018 for my foundation year. While I had visited Britain before with my family, living independently was a completely new experience. Adjusting to British English took some time, particularly as I had previously learned American English in Hong Kong. I lived in student accommodation at Frenchay Campus, where I quickly became close friends with my flatmates, many of whom remain close friends today.
Bristol itself has been a fantastic city in which to study. I enjoy its youthful atmosphere, creative culture, and wide range of activities. One of my favourite experiences was taking a harbour tour, which allowed me to learn more about the city’s history while seeing it from a different perspective.
As the course progressed, the workload became increasingly demanding. Physiotherapy combines theoretical learning, practical assessments, placements, and extensive self-study, making it challenging to balance all areas successfully. One particularly valuable aspect of the course has been working within multi-disciplinary teams alongside students from nursing, occupational therapy, and radiography. These experiences have strengthened my communication and teamwork skills, which are essential for future clinical practice. I also appreciate the interactive teaching style, including role plays, treatment planning, and small group discussions.
The lecturers have been consistently supportive throughout my studies. They encourage students to ask questions freely and place great importance on building a strong foundation of knowledge. As an international student, I have also felt well supported academically and personally.
Although I faced challenges during my degree, including failing a neurology placement during the pressures of the COVID-19 pandemic, these experiences helped me grow in resilience. Alongside studying, I worked part-time in a Chinese supermarket, where speaking my own language and spending time with friends provided a valuable connection to home.
Outside academics, I joined both the Hong Kong Society and Karate Club, serving on the committee for each. These societies helped me build friendships and adapt to life abroad. Studying internationally has pushed me far beyond my comfort zone, teaching me independence, adaptability, and confidence. Looking back on my time at university, I can clearly see how much I have grown both personally and professionally.