What did you study at A-level (or equivalent) and why did you select those subjects?
Psychology, Biology, Sociology. These were the subjects I found most interesting, specifically psychology.
What degree/PhD did you study?
I studied Psychology at undergraduate level and I am now doing a PhD in Psychology and Women’s Health and Medical Science.
What inspired you to choose and study your degree subject?
I have had a strong interest in Psychology since studying it for GCSE. My interest stemmed from my experiences with family members close to me struggling with learning difficulties and autism. I conducted my undergraduate research dissertation on autism and mental health. Throughout my undergraduate degree, I chose modules specific to health psychology and women’s health, and I decided this was an area I felt a strong interest in pursuing. Women’s health is extremely under-researched and psychological factors and treatments are often dismissed.
What key skills did you learn at university?
Communication, confidence, independence (but also teamwork!) and research skills.
What jobs have you had during your career?
Some of my jobs have included a carer for adults with mental health and learning difficulties and a carer for the elderly. I have also volunteered at a homeless shelter and held workshops with women on probation.
What is your current job and what do you enjoy about it?
I am currently a 2nd year PhD student working within the Department of Women’s and Children’s Health at the University of Liverpool. I really enjoy this role as I am conducting research into a vital research area and learning lots of new skills. I am also a co-host of a women’s health podcast ‘Between 2 Ovaries’ where we discuss all things women’s health in a fun, engaging way to bust myths and empower women.
Do you have an area of expertise / research?
Women’s health and psychology- specifically the psychological factors involved in the diagnostic process of chronic pelvic pain.
What has been your most exciting project or career role?
The Between 2 Ovaries podcast! We have so far reached a large audience of listeners and engagers, with over 40 thousand views on some of our video clips and 17 hundred followers on Instagram. This is extremely rewarding to feel that we are making a difference and empowering our listeners!
Any advice you’d like to share?
Get involved with anything and everything! Say yes to any opportunities that arise, you never know who you will meet, what you will do and what you can get out of things. This counts from conferences to talks to PPI events.
More resources:
Between 2 Ovaries Podcast: Listen on Spotify and Apple Podcasts
Keep up to date with Eleanor via LinkedIn