Kavishi Sheth
BSc in Physiological Sciences, graduated July 2022
MSc in Clinical Science (Cardiac), part of the NHS Scientist Training Programme
My name is Kavishi, and I am a first-year student undertaking the Scientist Training Programme (STP) in Cardiac Sciences under the National School of Healthcare Science, which includes a part-time postgraduate Master's degree in Clinical Science at Newcastle University. It is my fourth year in Newcastle this year, and I feel fortunate to remain a part of the lovely community of students and staff at Newcastle.
The STP is a three-year programme of work-based learning supported by a University accredited master's degree. Being an STP trainee in Cardiac Sciences, I am employed by the Norfolk and Norwich University Trusts as a Trainee Healthcare Scientist for the duration of my programme. I will be spending my time here exploring a range of Cardiac diagnostics, eventually specialising in either echocardiography or cardiac rhythm management. My role involves performing a range of diagnostic techniques on patients, from performing ECGs to working in the catheterisation labs, while continually striving towards innovation and improvement of the department along with participating in R&D at my hospital. As a Cardiac Scientist, I have rotations in the Respiratory, Sleep and Vascular Science departments as well, allowing me to develop a well-rounded knowledge of the cardiac system and how it interacts with other body systems.
Prior to this role, I undertook my bachelor's in Physiological Sciences at Newcastle University, which helped me find my passion and develop a good background to prepare me for the STP. I was initially introduced to the program at a careers event organized by the SBNSS careers and employability team. However, with the outbreak of SARS-CoV-2, I didn't give it much thought at the time. In my second year of university, I became fascinated by the physiology of the cardiovascular system. It was during this time that I had the opportunity to explore cardiac diagnostics further through attending seminars and an event hosted by Prof Chris Eggett, a Clinical Scientist (specialising in Cardiac Sciences) who also happened to be one of my lecturers. I always wanted to work in a clinical setting but did not want to pursue medicine, so as I learned more about the role of a Cardiac Physiologist, I realized that this was the direction I wanted to pursue. When I returned to Newcastle for my third year, I learned about PhysiolNet@ Newcastle, a network of Physiology alumni, through a presentation by Prof Thwaites. Through this network, I had the chance to connect with STP trainees and graduates and learn more about their experiences. By talking to these connections and Prof Eggett, I gained a deeper understanding of the day-to-day activities of cardiac scientists and the Scientist Training Programme, which is when I was certain I wanted to continue with this career.
My degree in Physiological Sciences from Newcastle University played a crucial role in my pursuit of a career in cardiac physiology. The comprehensive curriculum exposed me to a wide range of topics, providing me with a holistic understanding of human physiology and the interactions between different body systems. The combination of engaging lectures, hands-on practicals, in-depth seminars, and my final year research project in cardiac physiology equipped me with a solid foundation of knowledge and skills that I can apply to my work in cardiac diagnostics. Additionally, through the connections and experiences I received at Newcastle, including the employability team, internships, careers service and professionals, I could build relevant skills, experiences, and a support network to help me get through my journey. Newcastle has a particularly high success rate for the STP, and for anyone interested in this programme, I would recommend utilising the extensive resources, including your lecturers, peers, and the leading Careers team, who are always happy to support you in any way they can!