A scientist working seven-day weeks in the fight against
COVID-19 has earned a first-class degree.
Saloni Parikh was just about to start her final exams in March, when the pandemic took hold in the UK. Rather than taking time off to focus on her exams, Saloni decided to support the NHS.
She has now graduated from the University of Greenwich with a first in Applied Biomedical Science.
Saloni, pictured in the lab, is a trainee biomedical scientist at the Queen Elizabeth Hospital in Woolwich, as well as working as a pharmacy dispenser. During lockdown, this meant seven day working weeks to tackle all her commitments.
"I was given the opportunity to take the time off and prepare for my exams. Instead I worked to help support the team," Saloni said.
"Several lecturers from the university helped and supported me throughout these three months to ensure that I passed my modules.
"It wouldn't have been possible without the support of my parents, my friends and lecturers.
Dr Laura Pellatt, Programme Leader for Biomedical Science, added
"Saloni has done incredibly well to combine her NHS work with completing
her final year exams. She has shown selflessness, determination, resilience and
strength of character. These are the hallmarks of a Greenwich graduate."
About Biomedical Science
A Biomedical Science degree is versatile for different needs, from medicine and pharmaceuticals to diagnosis and treatment. It is fundamental in healthcare as all sample testing is carried out by biomedical scientists.
The university's Biomedical Science courses are accredited by the Institute of Biomedical Science (IBMS). This means they meet the Health and Care Profession Council (HCPC) standards of proficiency for biomedical scientists. It also means that students receive a wide-ranging, research informed scientific education, as well as developing the practical skills and experience that employers value.
At the University of Greenwich, students can apply for an NHS placement year. If accepted, their degree becomes Applied Biomedical Science and students can complete their registration training portfolio.
Saloni said she enjoyed the comprehensive learning experience, from applying for jobs in the field to the robust training programme in haematology and blood transfusion.
On her placement, she learned about haematological malignancies, different blood groups, the importance of crossmatching the correct unit of blood and transfusion reactions. Saloni also discovered how the degree and on-site training complement each other, with the university's continued support.
"While on placement, I underwent clinical laboratory training and was supported by my supervisor from university," she added.
"Within the Haematology Department, I was able to carry out several tests under supervision and work cross-site.
"The placement made me confident in reporting results under supervision. It also gave me practical knowledge which later helped me with the theory during my studies."
A successful placement can also lead to job opportunities, which is how Saloni came to retain a position during her final year as the pandemic hit. Now, with her first-class degree in hand, she is ready for the next stage of her career.
"I choose this degree as scientists play a key role in providing results which aid in the diagnosis, treatment and management of patient's conditions," Saloni added.
"I am honoured to have completed my registration training portfolio. Once registered, I can now start working as a Band 5 Biomedical Scientist."
